'Back business' - MP Andrew Snowden launches competition to find Fylde's best shop
“If we want thriving high streets, we need to back the businesses that make them successful.”
Residents across Fylde are being encouraged to support their favourite local businesses as Andrew Snowden, MP launches a competition to find the constituency’s best shop.
The initiative aims to highlight the independent retailers, family-run businesses, cafés and high street shops that play a vital role in local communities.
The competition follows the success of last year’s Fylde Pub of the Year awards, which attracted thousands of votes from residents. Businesses across Lytham, St Annes, Poulton-le-Fylde, Kirkham and Fylde villages have been nominated by local people, with customers now invited to vote online.
‘The heart of our communities’
Andrew said: “Our local shops and high street businesses are at the heart of our communities. They provide jobs, bring life to our town centres and villages, and offer the personal service and character that make our local high streets special.
“Independent businesses continue to face huge pressures, from rising costs and online competition to increasing taxes and bills, which is why it is more important than ever that we support them. Last year’s Pub of the Year competition was a fantastic success and I wanted to build on that by celebrating the brilliant shops and businesses we have across Fylde.
The overall winner will receive publicity, local press coverage and a bottle of House of Commons Whisky, while area winners will also be announced. Andrew Snowden also highlighted Conservative plans to scrap business rates for every pub and high street shop nationwide.
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‘We need to back business’
“Whether it is your local butcher, baker, florist, café, hairdresser, gift shop or family run retailer, I want people to get behind the businesses they value most and help us find Fylde’s Best Shop. I have been delighted by the response already, and I would encourage everyone to get involved and cast their vote.
“Business rates are one of the biggest barriers facing many small businesses and high street retailers. Conservatives have set out plans to scrap business rates for pubs and high street shops entirely, helping local businesses keep more of their hard earned money, invest, grow and protect local jobs.
“If we want thriving high streets, we need to back the businesses that make them successful.”
Voting is now open and closes on 31st August 2026. Residents can vote by visiting www.andrewsnowden.uk and clicking on ‘Shop of the Year’.