The average cost of a fish and chip supper has soared to £11.17, up from £6.48 in 2019, according to the Office for National Statistics. This price hike is pushing thousands of fish and chip shops toward closure, with hundreds already up for sale and nearly half of owners reporting extreme concern about their businesses' future, as revealed by the National Federation of Fish Friers (NFFF).
Rising Costs and Industry Warnings
Andrew Crook, president of the NFFF, commented on the situation: “The findings also highlight the resilience and adaptability of fish and chip businesses. While the sector faces challenges, businesses continue to evolve in response to changing consumer preferences and operating conditions while maintaining a food tradition that remains an important part of British culture.”
Danny Hennesy, a three-decade veteran of the trade and owner of Mandens, the UK’s leading broker for buying and selling fish and chip shops, issued a stark warning. “We should be seeing growth, instead, people are just trying to hold on,” Hennesy said. “Without support, more shops will close, and that would be a real loss to the high street.”
Traditional Fish Dominates, but Alternatives Emerge
Crook, who owns Skippers of Euxton in Lancashire, noted that 95% of his sales are cod and haddock, with alternatives “still not the norm.” However, some shops are adapting by introducing new species. Will Watson, owner of Will’s Plaice, has introduced New Zealand hoki, which he describes as “a cross between cod and haddock.” Hoki with chips costs £12, compared to £14.10 for cod. The alternative is selling well.
“Cod and haddock still make up 75-80% of sales, but those who try hoki often reorder,” Watson said. “We have fun with people who haven’t heard of it, we start doing the hokey cokey. Fish overall is very expensive, people worry about spending on something they’re not going to like. But no one has not liked it. We portioned some up and sent it into the bar next door – several people came in to buy a full fillet.”
Impact on High Streets and Consumer Habits
The rising cost of fish and chips is not only threatening independent shops but also impacting the broader high street. With many shops struggling to stay afloat, the loss of these traditional establishments could diminish the cultural fabric of British towns. The NFFF continues to advocate for support to help businesses adapt and survive in the face of escalating expenses.
