The people of the South Coast have spoken, casting close to 200,000 votes in the 2025 Best of the South Coast Readers’ Choice Awards.

With more than four times as many votes as last year, readers have crowned the best local businesses across 76 categories, from butchers and bakers to home-grown gems and national franchises.

This year’s awards also embraced change. With digital voting now complementing print, participation surged.

“It’s telling to note such a huge increase in voting this year,” said Herald business manager Michelle Izatt. “While most votes were online, print still accounted for a quarter of the total, showing that traditional media remains alive and relevant.”

The nomination process was also upgraded: every nominated business went through to the finals, giving all local enterprises a fair shot. Readers ultimately had the final say, highlighting those businesses that truly put customers first.

From home-grown heroes to national favourites, this year’s winners have shown excellence, service, and community spirit. The Herald congratulates all nominated businesses and applauds the 2025 winners for making the South Coast proud.

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