Five exceptional local businesses which prove shopping is about far more than just making a purchase have been nominated for the Independent Retailer of the Year title in this year’s Pride of Reading Awards.
Crunch Comics, in Reading’s Harris Arcade, offers a vital sanctuary for pop-culture lovers, run by the widely-praised Brian Wong.
“Brian is one of the nicest people I have met,” said one nominator, emphasising how he has created a safe, non-judgmental environment.
Another shared how Brian’s patience made a massive difference for their autistic 14-year-old son: “For my son, that kindness has made a huge difference. He now looks forward to every visit.”
With national giant Forbidden Planet planning a local branch, customers stress the importance of celebrating Crunch Comics – the only independent comic store in Berkshire and Oxfordshire – which even organises social gatherings for its community.
Leading the charge in Caversham is Jo Deacon and her team at BKRY, an independent cake shop, bakery school, and community hub. Jo, a former primary school teacher who opened the shop in September 2024, “has built something truly extraordinary in a short space of time”, according to a nominator.
When BKRY, in St Martin’s Precinct, was broken into last year, Jo’s honest response on Instagram prompted more than 40 local businesses to donate raffle prizes for “Sweet Justice”, turning a crisis into a celebration of community, said a nominator.
Known for her initiative Bentos for Better Days, which supports adult mental health, Jo’s guiding motto is simple: “Together we rise”.
BKRY has also been nominated for the Business in Action award sponsored by Boyes Turner for its dedicated work with young people’s counselling charity No5.
Just round the corner in Caversham, Fourbears Books in Prospect Street is another nominee weaving itself into the fabric of the community.
Run by Alex Forbes, the store has evolved into a vibrant neighborhood hub. Nominators praised how the shop “doesn’t just sell books,” but actively brings people together, hosting “free mum and baby groups, adult and children’s book clubs, and authors”.
Alex even opens the store on Christmas Day “for lonely locals to come in for a mince pie and chat”.
From school visits to the local ‘Fourbears Fest’ reading festival, the shop is a cornerstone of local connection, say nominators.
Fanny’s Antiques just over Caversham Bridge in Lynwood Road, is a local furnishing icon housed in a quirky former meat store.
Described as “a true gem in the heart of Reading”, Fanny’s delights visitors of all ages with its treasure trove of sustainable, recycled and unique finds.
“Fanny’s is legendary,” wrote one nominator. “While Fanny’s is a gem in itself, the real jewel is the people who own it, run it, and work there – warm, friendly, and welcoming.”
Wolseley Street Bakery in Britten Road, Reading is a standout independent business, demonstrating excellence through high-quality products and a genuine commitment to its customers, said a nominator.
It consistently delivers outstanding service, creating a friendly, welcoming environment where a clear passion for their craft keeps people coming back.
This warm, personal approach sets them apart from larger chains and highlights the value of independent retailers in shaping vibrant local communities, particularly through their participation in the Blue Collar Street Food Market, said the nominator.
They have also been nominated for Hospitality Award, inspired by and in memory of journalist and awards organiser Hilary Scott and sponsored by Cherubs Floral Design.
The Independent Retailer of the Year award is sponsored by REDA and Reading BID.
For a full list of the 2026 nominees check out the nominees page on the website.
Do you know an individual, company or group worthy of winning a Pride of Reading Award?
It’s easy to nominate. Just go to porawards.co.uk and click on the ‘nominate now’ button. Or scan the QR code on this page. Nominations close on Friday, July 31.
