The winners

Times may be tough in the retail trade but when a shop gets it right, word spreads. We asked you to tell us about your favourite shops and you replied in your thousands. Whether it’s cupcakes or hardware, books or crafts, the best cut of beef or a suit that fits like a dream, you know where to find it, and now we do too. The shops featured here stock the things you want and also provide expert and friendly service. Thank you to everyone who sent nominations and comments. It’s heartening to see that small, independent shops are surviving, thriving and standing out from the crowd. Here are the winners of the Best Shops in Ireland 2013.