Dallas, TX, December 12, 2025
The Dallas Market Center has revealed the call for entries for the Annual Showroom of the Year Awards, celebrating independent lighting retailers in North America. Submissions are open until March 2, 2026, with awards presented during the Lightovation show in June. These awards recognize excellence in merchandising, marketing, customer engagement, and community involvement, aiming to inspire retailers to achieve greatness and contribute to the local economy.
Dallas, TX – Dallas Market Center has announced the 17th Annual Showroom of the Year Awards, inviting independent lighting retailers across North America to submit entries by March 2, 2026. These prestigious awards recognize exemplary achievements in the lighting retail space, particularly emphasizing the entrepreneurial spirit that defines Dallas’ vibrant economy.
The awards will be presented during the upcoming Lightovation show, scheduled for June 24-27, 2026. This event not only celebrates innovation within the lighting industry but also underscores the significance of small businesses in driving economic vitality. Variables such as merchandising display, marketing strategies, customer engagement, employee motivation, and community contribution are core criteria for assessment, illustrating the comprehensive overview of what makes a lighting retailer truly stand out.
### Understanding the Showroom of the Year Awards
The Showroom of the Year Awards aim to honor exceptional independent lighting retailers throughout North America, showcasing their commitment to excellence in various aspects of business operations. With criteria that cover areas from merchandising displays to community involvement, the awards serve as a benchmark for quality within the industry, encouraging retailers to not only meet standards but to exceed them.
### Eligibility and Submission Guidelines
Any independent lighting retailer based in North America is eligible to participate in the Showroom of the Year Awards. Entries can be submitted either by the retailers themselves or by industry professionals on their behalf. If you’re considering participation, remember that all nominations and entries must be submitted by March 2, 2026. Interested retailers can easily access entry forms at www.dallasmarketcenter.com/soty.
### Categories and Special Awards
Finalists for the Showroom of the Year Awards will be selected based on dollar volume, with a winning showroom designated in each category. Beyond the main award, there are three specialty awards to recognize Outstanding Merchandising Display, Exceptional Community Involvement, and the visionary Showroom of the Future. These categories highlight both traditional retail excellence and forward-thinking approaches to business.
### The Lightovation Show
The awards ceremony will take place during the summer edition of the Lightovation show, a key event in the lighting industry calendar. Open to all attendees, this ceremony serves as a gathering point for industry professionals, facilitating connections and fostering a sense of community within the market. The visibility provided by such events not only contributes to the recognition of winning retailers but also promotes small business resilience and growth across the sector.
### Conclusion
The 17th Annual Showroom of the Year Awards is an exciting opportunity for independent lighting retailers to gain recognition for their hard work and dedication. By participating in this initiative, retailers not only highlight their achievements but contribute to the overall growth and dynamism of the Dallas TX business landscape. As such events continue to shine a light on excellence and innovation within the industry, they also inspire other entrepreneurs to strive for greatness.
### FAQ
What are the Showroom of the Year Awards?
The Showroom of the Year Awards honor exceptional independent lighting retailers across North America, recognizing achievements in areas such as merchandising display, marketing, customer service, employee education, and community involvement.
Who is eligible to participate?
Any independent lighting retailer in North America is eligible to participate. Nominations and entries can be submitted by industry professionals or the retailers themselves.
What is the deadline for submissions?
All nominations and entries must be submitted by March 2, 2026. Entry forms are available at www.dallasmarketcenter.com/soty.
When and where will the awards be presented?
The winners will be announced during a special Showroom of the Year Awards ceremony at the summer edition of the Lightovation show, scheduled for June 24-27, 2026, in Dallas, TX.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Awards Name | 17th Annual Showroom of the Year Awards |
| Organizer | Dallas Market Center |
| Submission Deadline | March 2, 2026 |
| Awards Ceremony | June 24-27, 2026, during the Lightovation show in Dallas, TX |
| Eligibility | Independent lighting retailers in North America |
| Entry Form Availability | www.dallasmarketcenter.com/soty |
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