EHI Foundation – Science Award

The EHI Foundation annually awards the Science Prize to recognize outstanding scientific achievements in the field of retail. In three categories – master’s theses, dissertations, and university start-ups – the foundation honors innovative approaches with a strong practical relevance that directly contribute to the advancement of the retail sector. Since 2008, awards totaling €65,000 have been presented jointly with GS1 Germany to intensify the exchange between research and industry. The award ceremony takes place in the festive setting of a gala event held alongside international leading trade fairs such as EuroShop or EuroCIS in Düsseldorf and provides early-career researchers with a platform to present their results to experts and retail executives.

Eligible to participate are individuals and founders of university start-ups whose projects or theses demonstrate high retail relevance and convincing practical benefits. Applications require the submission of a master’s thesis, dissertation, or business concept, supplemented by a CV and a concise summary. An independent jury evaluates the submissions based on innovation content, practical relevance, scientific excellence, and concrete benefits for the retail sector. Through this award, the EHI Foundation specifically supports emerging scientists, promotes knowledge transfer, and strengthens sustainable dialogue processes between academic institutions and retail practice.