Retail Design Institute Opens Call for Entries for the 55th International Retail Design Competition
- Retail Design Institute
- 8 hours ago
- 2 min read
Global retail design awards program invites entries for projects completed in 2025
For more than five decades, the Retail Design Institute’s International Design Competition has recognized outstanding retail environments that push the boundaries of planning, design, graphics, lighting, and visual merchandising.
The Institute is now accepting submissions for the 55th International Retail Design Competition. Eligible projects must have been completed between January 1 and December 31, 2025, and may represent a wide range of retail formats, including department stores, specialty retail environments, restaurants, kiosks, and pop-up concepts.
Entries are open to professionals across the retail ecosystem, including contract design firms, in-house retail design teams, general contractors, allied trades, fixture manufacturers, and material suppliers from around the world.
Projects will be evaluated by an international jury through a blind judging process, ensuring each submission is reviewed solely on the strength of its design, execution, and overall customer experience.
“This competition highlights what’s possible when creativity, strategy, and human-centered design come together,” said Cynthia Ortiz, RDI, International President of the Retail Design Institute. “As retail continues to evolve, we’re proud to recognize the ideas, craftsmanship, and design innovation that shape truly exceptional retail environments.”
Finalists will be announced in late Summer/early Fall 2026, with winners honored at the International Design Awards Celebration in New York City in October, where the prestigious Retail Experience of the Year and Outstanding Merit Awards will be revealed.
The submission deadline is July 10, 2026, at 11:59 PM Eastern.
Entry fees are $250 USD for Institute members and $375 USD for non-members, with an optional $50 Outstanding Merit Award add-on available for projects seeking recognition in specific design categories.
Complete submission guidelines and entry information are available at www.retaildesigninstitute.org/design-competition.
About the Retail Design Institute www.retaildesigninstitute.org
Founded in 1961, the Retail Design Institute is the leading international professional organization dedicated to the advancement and collaborative practice of creating selling environments. The Institute serves the retail industry through education, recognition, and networking for its members, the retail community, and students around the world.