Fish & Chip Shop Trends into 2025

As we approach 2025, fish and chip shop owners face a rapidly evolving landscape influenced by rising costs, shifting consumer behaviours, and new economic realities. These changes present challenges and opportunities for a sector rooted in tradition.

Economic Realities

Economic pressures are one of the most significant challenges for fish and chip shop owners. Labour costs, energy bills, and ingredient prices have dramatically increased, forcing businesses to rethink their operations.

Ingredient Costs:

Cod and haddock prices have risen 75%, while sunflower oil is 60% more expensive. Potatoes, affected by erratic weather patterns, have also surged in price.

Explore alternative fish options like pollock or coley, which offer similar textures and flavours at lower prices. To align with consumer values, promote these alternatives as “sustainable choices.”
Negotiate long-term contracts with local potato suppliers to stabilise pricing and ensure consistent supply. Partnering with local farms could also reduce transportation costs and foster community relationships.
Reduce food waste by introducing pre-portioned sizes, ensuring only what’s needed is prepared. Consider offering “mini” fish and chip options for value-conscious customers.

Labour Costs:

Labour expenses are increasing, with the National Minimum Wage rising to £12.21 per hour from April 2025.

Cross-train employees to handle multiple roles, reducing the need for additional staff during busy periods.
Invest in digital ordering systems to minimise labour-intensive tasks like order taking and payment processing.
Introduce flexible scheduling or part-time roles to accommodate staff preferences while optimising coverage.

Energy Costs:

Doubling or tripling energy bills is a concern for many shop owners.

Apply for government grants or energy-saving schemes available for small businesses, such as those offered through the UK Energy Efficiency Programme.
Upgrade to energy-efficient fryers and ventilation systems to lower long-term utility costs. Calculate the ROI of such investments to ensure affordability.
Audit your shop’s energy usage to identify wasteful practices.

Adapting to Consumer Behaviour

Consumer habits have shifted significantly, driven by inflation and changing preferences. Understanding these behaviours and responding with tailored solutions can set your shop apart.

Value for Money:

Customers are becoming more selective with their spending.

Introduce loyalty programmes, such as “Buy 5 meals, get 1 free,” to encourage repeat visits.
Offer meal deals that bundle popular items (e.g., a smaller fish portion with chips and a drink) at an attractive price point.
Communicate the quality of your ingredients and the value behind your pricing, such as sustainable sourcing or local partnerships.

Convenience:

Delivery is now an expectation rather than a luxury.

Partner with platforms like Deliveroo, Just Eat, or Uber Eats to expand your reach. Test different platforms to see which yields the highest returns.
Set up a user-friendly online ordering system directly on your website to reduce reliance on third-party fees.
Ensure packaging is sturdy and retains heat to deliver a high-quality experience.

Dietary Preferences:

Vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options are no longer niche.

Add vegan alternatives, such as battered banana blossom or tofu wrapped in seaweed. Market these as ethical and environmentally friendly choices.
Offer gluten-free batter options and dedicate a fryer to gluten-free items to prevent cross-contamination. Clearly label these on your menu to build trust.
Include healthier options like grilled fish and lighter sides, such as salads or sweet potato chips.

Sustainability

Sustainability is a growing priority for customers and regulators alike. Adopting eco-friendly practices can enhance your reputation and attract ethically conscious diners.

Sourcing Sustainably:

Use Marine Stewardship Council (MSC)-certified fish to ensure sustainable stocks.

Promote sustainable choices on your menu with clear labelling (e.g., “Sustainably Sourced Cod”).
Build relationships with local fish markets, such as Peterhead’s auction hall, to reduce dependency on imports.

Eco-Friendly Packaging:

Transition to biodegradable or recyclable materials for takeaway orders.

Research suppliers offering affordable eco-friendly packaging options, such as kraft paper boxes or compostable utensils.
Highlight your use of sustainable packaging on social media and in-shop signage to reinforce your commitment to the environment.

Energy Efficiency:

Go beyond saving costs by reducing your environmental footprint.

Install LED lighting and optimise ventilation to lower energy use.
Monitor energy consumption using smart meters to identify inefficiencies.

Marketing and Technology

Digital platforms are now critical for reaching customers and building brand loyalty. A strategic marketing approach can help grow your customer base and increase sales.

Social Media:

Platforms like TikTok and Instagram are ideal for showcasing your shop’s personality.

Share engaging content, such as short videos of your frying process, staff stories, or customer testimonials.
Create seasonal campaigns, such as “Sustainable Summer Specials,” to generate excitement and attract new customers.
Respond to reviews and interact with followers to build a sense of community.

Digital Loyalty Programmes:

Reward regular customers with exclusive deals.

Use apps like Square or Toast to integrate loyalty tracking into your payment system.
Offer points for each purchase that can be redeemed for free items or discounts.

Online Presence:

Make it easy for customers to find and order from your shop.

Optimise your website for mobile use, ensuring clear menus, pricing, and online ordering options.
Claim your business on Google and update your details regularly to improve visibility.

Customer Experience

Create an inviting atmosphere while ensuring durability and cost-effectiveness. BE Furniture Sales offers a range of options tailored to meet these needs.

Café Furniture for a Touch of Flair

For those looking to add a stylish element to their establishment, BE Furniture Sales provides an extensive selection of café furniture. This collection includes ergonomically designed chairs and versatile tables crafted from aluminium, wood, glass, and plastic materials. These pieces are suitable for indoor and outdoor settings and offer flexibility in design and layout.

Aluminium Furniture is Tough and No-Nonsense

If durability and practicality are top priorities, the aluminium bistro furniture range is an excellent choice. Known for its robust construction, this furniture is ideal for high-traffic areas and outdoor use. The aluminium bistro tables and chairs are easy to store and maintain, making them a practical solution for busy environments.

Staying Resilient in 2025

Running a fish and chip shop in 2025 requires a mix of tradition and modernisation. By managing rising costs, meeting evolving customer needs, and embracing sustainability, owners can position their shops for long-term success.

Focus on what makes your business unique: the quality of your ingredients, your dedication to the environment, or your community ties.