Running Industry Alliance (RIA), in collaboration with England Athletics and RunEvents, has opened nominations for the 2025 Running Industry Awards. This new annual awards celebration aims to shine a spotlight on the innovative, impactful, and standout players in the business‑to‑business running sector across the UK & Ireland.
The Running Industry Awards are supported by ‘The Power Zone’ partners including njuko, Orangery and Endurance Zone. Category Partners announced so far include ASICS, Scimitar and Triathlon Industry Association (TIA).
How to nominate
- Nominations are welcome from RIA / TIA members and non‑members alike, and the process to nominate is free.
- Submissions are accepted between June 30, 2025 and August 18, 2025 via the official Awards website www.runningindustryawards.com. Here, individuals can nominate in multiple categories, as long as each entry matches the criteria.
Awards
There are 18 awards across 11 categories:
Brand of the Year (4 awards) : recognising brands across core product categories:
- Footwear Brand of the Year. For innovation, design, performance, and impact in running shoes.
- Apparel Brand of the Year. For excellence in technical clothing, sustainability, and community engagement.
- Accessories Brand of the Year. For brands excelling in gear such as eyewear, headlamps, hats, socks or safety – elevating the runner experience.
- Nutrition, Hydration and Wellbeing. Celebrating those supporting the physical and mental wellbeing of runners through innovative products, services, or programmes.
Retailer of the Year (3 Awards) : recognising retail excellence across all formats – in service, innovation and community:
- Independent Retailer of the Year – independently owned and up to a maximum of 5 stores
- Multi-Site Retailer of the Year – over 6 stores
- Online Retailer of the Year – purely online retailers
Event of the Year (3 Awards) : celebrating events that raise the bar in delivery, runner experience, innovation and community value:
- Large-Scale Event of the Year. For mass participation events (5,000+ runners) excelling in scale, sustainability, and impact.
- Mid-Sized Event of the Year . For events (1,000 – 4,999 runners) showcasing standout experience, sustainability and community connection.
- Boutique or Specialist Event of the Year. For events under 1,000 participants that prioritise accessibility, sustainability, local engagement, and unique experiences.
Community Impact Award – Category Partner: ASICS
Recognising individuals or initiatives using running to create meaningful social change, inclusion, and local transformation.
Charity Campaign of the Year – Category Partner: Scimitar
Celebrating impactful charity campaigns, initiatives or events that drive awareness, action, fundraising, and positive outcomes.
Tech in Running Award
Spotlighting transformative technology that enhances training, racing, and the runner journey – from apps and wearables to digital platforms and tools.
Service or Supplier of the Year
Recognising essential B2B providers – from timing and logistics to merchandise and safety – who keep the industry moving behind the scenes.
Media Voice of the Year
Highlighting powerful storytelling in running – from journalists and broadcasters to podcasters, influencers, and media platforms shaping culture and conversation.
Triathlon & Multisport Excellence Award – Category Partner Triathlon Industry Association
Celebrating innovation and growth across the multisport sector – including triathlon events, brands, and service providers making an impact in crossover spaces.
Agency of the Year
Honouring creative, PR, event or marketing agencies that deliver standout industry campaigns.
Outstanding Contribution to the Industry Award
Recognising an individual or organisation whose long-term service, vision, or leadership has shaped and elevated the running industry.
Public Voting Process
- Round 1 (Top 10): August 21, 2025 – September 24, 2025
- Round 2 (Top 3): September 29, 2025 – October 13, 2025
- Round 3 (Final Winner): October 17, 2025 – November 3, 2025
Winners will be announced at a Gala Awards Dinner on December 9, 2025, held at Burleigh Court, Loughborough University.
A judging panel will oversee the voting process to ensure fairness and transparency, however the final winners are decided by public vote.
Gala Awards Dinner Details (by ticket access only)
• Venue: Burleigh Court, Loughborough University (LE11 3GR)
• Date: Tuesday December 9, 2025
• Time: Arrival from 18.00; close by 23:00
• Dress code: ‘Whatever makes you feel fabulous’
Details about how to secure tickets or tables as well as accommodation booking details will be announced in July.
RIA notes that individuals can get involved at a number of points in the process:
• Nominate via online form (June 30, 2025 to August 18, 2025)
• Cast vote during the three public voting stages
• Join at the Gala Awards Dinner in December (details to follow in July)
Those interested in category and strategic partnership opportunities can contact the RIA Team at info[at]runningindustryalliance.com
