Retailers large and small are being invited to enter a nationwide competition to find Britain's best-dressed shop windows.
Market research company Ipsos Retail Performance says that, in this year of the Queen's Diamond Jubilee celebrations and Olympic Games, the theme of the first Ipsos Retail Prize is Best of British.

The competition aims to celebrate the most visually-creative and effective window designs on Britain's high streets. Ipsos says the displays might have a noticeable influence on driving customers into the store or encourage them to buy or become more loyal to the store. What has been included to catch the shopper's eye? Is it stark minimalism, clever aerial props, or maybe red, white and blue pomp and circumstance? What gives the store the wow factor and makes a visit inside the store irresistible?

Retailers can submit pictures of their window displays as many times as they change to reflect alternate themes over the next few months. They may also send backdated images.

Prizes of a certificate and luxury afternoon tea will be awarded for two categories of retailer, chain/department stores and independent retailers. Closing date for entries is September 30 2012, and winners will be announced in October.

To enter visit visit www.ipsos-retailperformance.com.