The cost of Britain’s favourite takeaway continues to climb, with the average portion of cod and chips now costing £11.41 across the UK, while haddock and chips has reached £10.29, according to a new industry report.
The study by Seafish, the UK’s seafood industry body, highlights growing pressures on the nation’s fish and chip shops as rising prices for fish, potatoes, cooking oil and energy continue to squeeze profit margins.
There are currently around 7,210 fish and chip shops operating across the country, Seafish estimates, but many businesses are adapting to changing economic conditions by diversifying menus or streamlining their offerings.
Some shops have introduced additional items such as kebabs, pizzas and masala fish, while others have reduced menu choices to improve efficiency and control costs.
The report found that cod, haddock, scampi and fishcakes remain the most popular seafood options available in fish and chip shops nationwide. Haddock continues to dominate menus in Scotland, Yorkshire and parts of the Midlands, while cod remains the preferred choice elsewhere in Britain.
Jennifer Robson, author of the report at 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.”
She added: “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.”
Robson also highlighted the role fish and chip shops play in encouraging consumers to try a wider range of seafood products.
“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,” she said.
Andrew Crook, president of the National Federation of Fish Friers, welcomed the findings, saying they demonstrate the resilience of the industry.
“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,” he said.
“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.”