Independent shops such as local post offices, grocers and newsagents are becoming thinner on the ground as large supermarket chains become more popular.
The National Magazine Company's Country Living, which has a largely rural readership, will ask readers to nominate a local store that provides products and services over and above the normal requirements.
Susy Smith, editor of Country Living, said: "Rural newsagents rarely exist these days as standalone shops. Instead, the one does everything from pension payments to paper delivery to selling pints of milk. We are looking for newsagents who are going the extra mile, delivering new and innovative services to rural people along with their favourite magazine."
The winner of the competition will receive a cash prize of £2,000 and two runners up will each win £500. The March issue goes on sale on February 20.
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