Frequently asked questions 

Student Retail Design Awards

 

Q) Does it cost anything to enter?
A) No, entries are free for all students 


Q) Do I need to make a model or prototype of my design?
A) No, we only require rendered visuals & a 500-word description 


Q) What is the entry deadline?
A) Friday 30th May 2025 


Q) How do I enter?
A) Once you have completed your design, upload up to 5 images of the entry into the awards entry portal and submit <500 words describing your entry. Some of the images can be montages or technical drawings, but the more images of the final design concept, the better!


Q) What are the judges looking for?
A) In answering their brief, judges will score you equally along these criteria: 
- Design aesthetics
- Materials used
- Use of space
- Branding & communication
- Meeting shoppers’ needs/ shopper engagement
- Sustainability

Q) Can I enter as a group?
A) No, in this, the first year of the new format of the competition, we are not accepting group entries. 


Q) What online resources are available to me?
A) All entrants can access the POPAI search engines and explore thousands of photos and retail case studies. 


Q) Can I access industry guidance?
A) Yes, an agency mentor will help you in your development process & provide feedback.


Q) What happens if I’m shortlisted?
A) We’ll pay for you to come to London and present your design to the brand who set the brief & industry creative professionals. 


Q) What happens if my design wins?
A) As well as giving you a cash prize, we’ll pay for accommodation overnight in London and you’ll receive your prize in front of more than 500 retail professionals at our annual industry awards, joining in the entire evening of celebrations. 


Q) What if I have any other questions?
A) Get in touch with the POPAI office on info@popai.co.uk