Celebrating 30 Years of Innovation: The Evolution of Visual Merchandising and the 2025 Display Awards

The Visual Merchandising and Display Awards, established in 1995, are set to celebrate their 30th anniversary in 2025, marking three decades of excellence in retail display. These awards have become a prestigious platform, recognising and rewarding the most innovative and creative approaches in visual merchandising and retail display.

Over the past 30 years, physical retail has undergone a profound transformation. In the mid-1990s, the focus was primarily on creating visually striking window displays to attract customers. Retail giants like Harrods and Harvey Nichols were renowned for their elaborate and often theatrical windows, which became iconic elements of the shopping experience. These traditional methods of visual merchandising, relying on mannequins, props, and hand-crafted signage, remain as crucial today as they were back then—perhaps even more so. What has evolved, however, is the incorporation of modern technologies that enhance these displays, rather than replace them.

As the 21st century progressed, the rise of e-commerce and the digital revolution prompted retailers to adapt. Stores such as Selfridges, Harrods, Harvey Nichols and Liberty London led the way by integrating digital screens, augmented reality (AR), and interactive displays into their physical spaces. These innovations allowed for more dynamic and engaging environments, crucial for maintaining the relevance of brick-and-mortar stores in an increasingly online world. Despite these advancements, the essence of traditional visual merchandising—capturing attention and creating a compelling narrative—remains at the heart of retail strategy. The use of digital tools serves to enhance these traditional techniques, offering a richer and more immersive experience without overshadowing the foundational methods.

In recent years, sustainability has emerged as a pivotal concern in retail, influencing every aspect of the industry from product sourcing to store design. Retailers have championed this shift, incorporating sustainable materials into their displays and adopting energy-efficient lighting solutions. The emphasis on sustainability reflects broader consumer values, with customers increasingly expecting brands to demonstrate environmental responsibility. Visual merchandising has evolved to meet these expectations, prioritising eco-friendly designs that not only draw in customers but also align with their ethical concerns.

The Visual Merchandising and Display Awards have recognised these shifts, rewarding retailers who excel in both innovation and sustainability. Categories in the awards often highlight sustainable practices, showcasing how visual merchandising can contribute to a brand's environmental goals. These awards celebrate the creativity and ingenuity of retailers who successfully balance aesthetic appeal with ethical considerations, setting new standards for the industry.

As the 30th edition of the Visual Merchandising and Display Awards approaches on 12th March 2025 in London, the event will reflect on the remarkable evolution of the industry. The awards, which remain fast and free to enter, continue to celebrate excellence across all retail sectors. This year’s event promises to be a landmark occasion, recognising the best in visual merchandising and display while also setting the stage for the future of retail.To find out more and view the 2025 categories you can visit

www.vmanddisplayawards.com or contact enquiries@vmanddisplay.com for more information on how you can become part of the 2025 event.