Rural businesses across Powys are among those shortlisted for the 2026 Countryside Alliance Awards in Wales.

The awards, now in their 19th year, recognise rural businesses that play an important role in their local areas. A total of 18 Welsh businesses have been shortlisted across five categories, with several from Powys included. Members of the public are now being invited to vote, with the Welsh winners due to be announced at the Senedd in Cardiff on June 9. Those winners will then go on to compete in the national final at the House of Lords on July 8.

In the butcher category, WJ George Butchers & the Delipot on Talgarth’s High Street has been shortlisted. The business has traded for more than 135 years and was taken over by WJ (Billy) George in 1935, when he bought it from his uncle.

Two Powys pubs have been shortlisted in the best pub category. The Griffin Inn in Llyswen is known locally for its food and drink and attracts customers from far and wide. The Prince Llewelyn Inn in Cilmery, just west of Builth Wells, is a family-run pub serving traditional meals alongside regular specials.

Glanusk Country Store and Gun Room in Sennybridge has been shortlisted in the rural enterprise category. The business supplies country clothing and equipment, as well as equestrian, fishing and gun products, and serves customers from across the local farming and rural community.

ESCO’s in New Radnor has been shortlisted in the village shop and post office category. The shop was set up in 2011 after the village lost its last remaining shop. It was originally based in a small cabin before moving to the Old Town Hall in 2014. The shop stocks local produce and offers services including doorstep deliveries, and has become a focal point for the village.

Rachel Evans, director of Countryside Alliance Wales, said the number of nominations reflected the importance of rural businesses.

“Once more, we have been taken aback by the number of nominations this year. So many wonderful businesses have been sent in by the public,” she said.

“Every business has an important story to tell - it’s so important that they are recognised. The secret to the rural Oscars’ popularity is that they honour the people involved in these businesses, and not just their produce or services. At this critical time for so many rural businesses, it is vital we all show our support in whatever way we can.

“We encourage as many people as possible to get voting. When you have voted, please share the link with friends and families.”

There are five categories in total - ‘best pub’, ‘best village shop/ post office’, ‘best butcher’, ‘best for local food a drink’ and the ‘rural enterprise award’.

The businesses which go on to become finalists or champions will receive regional and national recognition, strengthening the reputation of their brand.

To view the full list of nominations for each category and to vote for your favourites, please visit: www.research.net/r/CAA26WalesMedia