The cost of fish and chips in the North East has risen, with a new report from industry body Seafish revealing that a portion of cod and chips now costs an average of £11.41 across the UK, while haddock and chips averages £10.29.
Fish and chip shops under pressure from rising costs
Approximately 7,210 fish and chip shops operate across the UK, according to Seafish. Fish suppers remain a popular choice in the North East, but rising costs for fish, potatoes, oil, and energy are putting pressure on shop owners. Many are diversifying their menus with items such as kebabs, pizzas, or masala fish, or cutting options to increase efficiency, the report noted.
Earlier this year, ChronicleLive readers voted for their best place for fish and chips, and a popular chippy in Newcastle was named Best Fish and Chip Shop in the North East at the English Fish & Chip Awards. Despite the popularity, the industry faces challenges.
Report highlights sector resilience and adaptation
The Seafish report, the first of its kind to gather such data, found that cod, haddock, scampi, and fishcakes are the most common seafood products on menus. Haddock dominates in Scotland and parts of Yorkshire and the Midlands, while cod remains the most common choice elsewhere in the UK.
Report author Jennifer Robson, from Seafish, said: “Our report confirms that fish and chips is very much alive and kicking in the UK – it remains one of the nation’s most iconic and recognisable meals, enjoyed by millions of people every year. We embarked on this research to better understand a sector that plays a very important role in local economies and communities across the UK and provides a vital route through which consumers can enjoy seafood. Fish and chip shops also play an important role in connecting the public with a wide range of seafood beyond the traditional cod and haddock – for example lesser-known species such as plaice, skate and pollock, that can offer excellent eating quality and greater choice.”
Industry leader comments on report findings
National Federation of Fish Friers president Andrew Crook said: “This is a very welcome report – its findings help us not only to benchmark the fish and chip sector, but also start to calculate its value to the economy. 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.”
In recent years, Brits have seen price increases in fish and chips, driven by rising energy, food, and import expenses. The average meal cost has risen from roughly £6.48 in 2019 to over £10 today.
North East still offers bargains
Earlier this year, ChronicleLive reported how a man bought what he believed to be the "cheapest fish and chips in the UK" in the North East. Jonny Adams posted a review on TikTok, highlighting the low price tag of food from Dhillons in Allerdene, Gateshead. In his footage, Jonny declared: "Right guys, check this out. £5.99 cod and chips. What an absolute bargain. We're at Dhillons, we're in Allerdene, Gateshead. Guys, check that out."
