Fish and chip shops across the UK are facing an 'extinction event' due to soaring costs, according to the National Federation of Fish Friers. The industry body has warned that rising prices for cod, sunflower oil, and energy are pushing many businesses to the brink.
Some shops in the West of England report significant struggles. Craig Williams, manager of Sand Bay Fish and Chip Shop near Weston-super-Mare, said the current situation is 'worse' than during the pandemic. 'People are penny-pinching now. Fish and chips might not be top of their priority list on a Friday night,' he added.
Jason Ford from Bishopston Fish Bar in Bristol noted that while the shop has raised prices three times this year, business has dropped by about 30%. The federation estimates that around 66% of shops have reduced opening hours, leading to a loss of four staff per shop on average.
The National Federation of Fish Friers is urging the government to cut VAT and provide support with energy bills. A meeting with ministers is scheduled for Thursday to press for help. A government spokesman highlighted existing support measures, including fuel duty cuts, 50% business rates relief for eligible high street businesses, and a freeze on the business rates multiplier, worth £4.6 billion over five years.
The spokesman added: 'We are working closely with industry to mitigate the impact our sanctions against Russia may have on British businesses, including through the creation of the £100m UK Seafood Fund.' Despite these efforts, industry leaders warn that without further intervention, many small shops may not survive.
