The nation's high streets are diversifying as town centres become a destination for socialising, and not just for shopping - and new cafe furniture can help set the scene for a Great British High Street bid.
Last year was the first time the awards were held, and Belper in Derbyshire won the title of best market town and overall champion.
On January 15th, high streets minister Penny Mordaunt visited Belper and took the opportunity to confirm that a second year of the awards will go ahead.
She said: "I've have been bowled over by the pride, passion, and enthusiasm people have for their high streets and the value they place on them as an essential part of their community."
Ms Mordaunt added that the UK is "a nation of shopkeepers" and that, through the Great British High Street competition, it is hoped that participants will share their ideas of best practice to rejuvenate the nation's high streets.
"There was such enthusiasm for the competition last year, from towns like Belper, that it makes sense to hold it again so we can all learn more new ways to place high streets back at the heart of our communities," she concluded.
Of course in the modern day, high streets are not just about shopkeepers in the retail sense - anyone running a diversified business has their own part to play in ensuring town centres and village market streets remain popular destinations for local residents.
In some cases, that can mean premises that encompass a shop and a small cafe or tea room, and these are not unusual.
Or it might mean traditional retail premises alongside standalone coffee shops, cafes, tea rooms and even restaurants and bars, as the mix of high street businesses continues to develop further.
For those hoping to make a bid for the Great British High Street awards, it is important to make sure every business is up to scratch, whether in the retail sector or not.
New cafe furniture is an easy way to raise standards without extensive refurbishment work, and provides a comfortable place for customers to sit while they enjoy a snack or a drink.