Last Mile Retail Awards Returns in 2026 to Celebrate Excellence in Delivery and Innovation

Last Mile Retail Awards Returns in 2026 to Celebrate Excellence in Delivery and Innovation

Following the success of last year’s sold-out inaugural gala, the Last Mile Retail Awards (LMRA) are returning for a second year, promising an even bigger celebration of innovation, customer experience, and leadership in retail logistics. The 2nd Annual LMRA will be held on May 20, 2026, at the Four Seasons in Nashville, Tennessee, in partnership with Home Delivery World, the premier U.S. trade show for retail supply chain and logistics professionals.

Nominations Open Now

Public nominations are officially open through December 2, 2025 at www.lastmileretailawards.com. Retailers, innovators, and delivery partners who are redefining the last mile are encouraged to submit entries across 13 award categories. Finalists will be selected by an advisory board of industry leaders, with public voting taking place from January 6 through March 4, 2026. Winners will be announced live during the gala.

Categories and Special Honors

The 2026 LMRA will recognize 19 winners across a range of categories, including:

• Overall Excellence
• Customer Experience
• Innovation
• E-Commerce
• Mr. and Mrs. Last Mile

Special honors will also spotlight sustainability, social impact, and customer-first leadership, with awards such as:

• Hall of Fame Award
• Social Impact Retailer of the Year
• Sustainable Retailer of the Year
• Best Overall Customer Experience Retailer

Industry Leaders at the Helm

The LMRA Advisory Board features executives and thought leaders from across logistics and retail, including Arelis Bonilla (Aria Logistics), Bob Bauer (Dispatch Truck), John Beasley (Home Delivery World), Benjamin Rambo (GEODIS), Lisa Scarnecchia (Ryder), Maryjane Fanizzi (Mattress Firm), Jeremy Hill (The Cardinal Way), and Rahmel Wattley (Truck ’N Hustle).

“After the tremendous energy and recognition generated by our inaugural event, we are thrilled to be back for year two,” said Arelis Bonilla, Founder of Aria Logistics and Founder of the Last Mile Retail Awards. “This year we will honor an even broader scope of retailers and individuals who continue to raise the bar for service, innovation, and leadership.”

Why It Matters

As e-commerce accelerates, last mile delivery continues to be the defining factor in meeting consumer expectations. By highlighting the companies and individuals pushing boundaries, the LMRA reinforces the importance of innovation and customer-centricity in today’s competitive retail landscape.

For nominations, sponsorships, or press inquiries, visit www.lastmileretailawards.com.