Whether you're a one-store independent just starting out or a multi-store high street veteran, the time has come to make your case for winning one of the fashion retail industry's most coveted prizes - a Drapers Award.

The entries have been pored over by our team of in-house experts and I'm delighted to announce the shortlist. Our team will now interview the owner, manager or director of those businesses to dig deeper. A report will then be produced and put in front of a panel of industry big-hitters who will debate and score the entries.

The identity of the winners, however, will be kept confidential even from the judges until our big night on November 19 when we will hand out the prizes at a glittering ceremony. The prize-giving will culminate in our three new Platinum Awards, Independent Retailer of the Year, Multiple Retailer of the Year and Lifetime Achievement of the Year - book your place for the night.

Before I sign off, I'd like to take the opportunity to thank our generous sponsors for making this event possible.

Best wishes,

Editor, Drapers

Entries for Drapers Awards 2008 are now closed. Register you interest in the 2009 awards here.