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N OW C E L E B R AT I N G O U R 1 0 T H Y E A R
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www.chippychat.co.uk
The Pies Have It!
austen@chippychat.co.uk
Take Care & Keep Safe
TEL 01353 865 966
Off to the Abu Dhabi Chippy Issue 4 Volume 10 April 2020
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Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • April 2020
Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • April 2020
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Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • April 2020
Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • April 2020
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Unprecedented Times!
The Year March-es On! ovid-19 has created uncertain Please can I put on record a huge
C
Austen AustenDack Dack
Publishing Editor Publishing Editor
Chippy Chat Ltd
times for all chip shop owners, Well already approaching the staff & suppliers. At time of writing end of the first quarter of 2018! many shops had closed (although Hopefully it will be a busy one for they still could deliver), and some had shops and we approach chosen to suppliers deliver andasdo collected Mother’s day and Easter too. meals only as per government Congratulations to all at Friars directive.
Pride. Once again,than they What is bigger allhave of this is the fact many thousands of show people delivered a fantastic trade are dying both here and across the with even more visitors it seemed World. than ever. When this virus is under control A busy offering this month for your and we can all go back to our normal delights. First off we review many lives (whatever normal will be), then of our oil and fat suppliers giving I’m sure collectively Team Fish & you the chance to see what many Chips will come back better and even top shopsthan are using Also, stronger before.and We why. all need to work together to make this happen.
vote of thanks to Andrew Crook and we have our great sausage feature the NFFF board for their tireless too! efforts through this time of hardship. Our front-page partner for March is Despite having their own shops and Pukka Pies. of worries, theyThey havesupply helped millions many shops pies to fish and chip shops across (NFFF members or not) with their the UK Please and they gripes. joinare thehelping NFFF it us is in celebrate National Pie Week. times of need that you realise just you need them. Ifhow youmuch would like to advertise, If you would like to advertise, get involved or tell us some get involved or tell us some news please news please email me austen@ email me austen@chippychat.co.uk chippychat.co.uk – thanks for your – thanks for your support enjoy the support enjoy the issue. issue. Austen Please stay safe everyone Austen Please contact me austen@chippychat.co.uk
Oak Lane Littleport Ely Cambridgeshire Chippy Chat Ltd CB6 1RS Oak Lane Littleport Elywww.chippy-chat.co.uk Cambridgeshire info@chippychat.co.uk CB6 1RS
Twitter @Chippychat
www.chippy-chat.co.uk Facebook Chippy-Chat info@chippychat.co.uk TEL 01353 865 966 Twitter @Chippychat FAX 01353 863 444 Facebook Chippy-Chat Managing Director John TEL Boutwood 01353 865 966 FAX 01353 863 444 Publisher Oliver Boutwood Managing Director oliver@chippychat.co.uk John Boutwood
Publishing Publisher Editor Austen Oliver Dack Boutwood austen@chippychat.co.uk oliver@chippychat.co.uk 07863123929 Publishing Editor Subscriptions and Marketing Executive Austen Dack Amanda Waterfield austen@chippychat.co.uk amanda@chippychat.co.uk 07863123929 01353 865 966 Design/Editorial Design/Editorial Stuart Catterson Stuart Catterson stuart@cc-ff.com stuart@cc-ff.com Accounts Accounts Claire Boutwood-Potter Claire Boutwood-Potter accounts@chippychat.co.uk accounts@chippychat.co.uk Printed in the UK by Printed in the UK by The Magazine Printing Company The Magazine Printing Company Advertising Sales and Promotions Advertising Sales and Promotions austen@chippychat.co.uk austen@chippychat.co.uk For PR and Editorial For PR and Editorial editorial@chippychat.co.uk editorial@chippychat.co.uk
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Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • April 2020 Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • March 2018
Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • April 2020 Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • March 2018
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Seafish support for the seafood sector during Covid-19 outbreak in the UK By Marcus Coleman CEO Seafish
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WE HAVE SUPPLIED INBUILT SUPERPAD SYSTEMS (TRIPLE FILTRATION) FOR FACTORY FITTING TO: MARTYN EDWARDS FRANK FORD KIREMKO (KFE) HENRY NUTTALL SCOTRANGE EDEN RANGE
WE HAVE ALSO RETRO-FITTED BASKET FILTRATION AND SUPER PAD UNITS TO SHOP INSTALLED RANGES. PLEASE CALL FOR ADVICE ON YOUR RANGE
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Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • April 2020
e’re making adjustments to how we work so that we can continue to support the UK seafood sector. As the coronavirus situation evolves, Seafish staff will work from home until at least Friday 1st May, to reduce the risk to health and wellbeing and play our part in slowing the spread. Meetings will happen by phone, conference call or online and our staff will be available as usual via email and phone. We have postponed or cancelled some of our larger events which were due to take place before 1st May. We are fully committed to supporting the UK seafood sector through this difficult time. In this situation, the availability of food is crucial and the seafood industry has a huge part to play in this. We are aware of the impact this is already having on seafood businesses and supply chains and we will do what we can to help. We can play an important role in pulling together a complete overview of all the impacts of coronavirus across the entire seafood sector. You can contribute information and insight so that we can provide a full overview to the industry and Government through regular reports. Please tell us how your business is affected by coronavirus and how you’re responding by emailing seafish@seafish. co.uk or get in touch with anybody at Seafish and they will share your story with our analysis team. Your information will be treated confidentially. If there is anything else you think we can do to help, please let us know.
Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • April 2020
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Inside
April 2020
Collins Seafoods
Grant’s for the Needy
Mary Janes donates food to the community
Top T-Rump!
Steak & Stilton Pie Takes Top Spot
Evergreens
Growing the Green Planet Brand
Alexa Knows Your Plaice!
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Bigger is Better!
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Launching UK’s first voice-powered takeaway delivery service
And more people realise how delicious these sauces are
Invigorating! Hewigo offers real value through innovation and investment
T. Quality on-line ordering Early launch due to the Corona Virus
Shap, Crackle & Pop!
Documenting Shap’s amazing journey through the Seafish National Fish & Chip Awards
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Weathering the Storm Together
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Easy Pickings
Kings Business Announce the Sale of Top Plaice Chip Shop .
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Quality disposables manufacturer and supplier, Herald has stepped up its supply
The Norwegian industry vows to support the UK fish & chip sector
Fish & Chips in Abu Dhabi
Annual Range Servicing • Insurance Certificates Duct Steam Cleaning • Repairs • Modifications
Herald Meets Demand
Isle of Ely Industry Open Day .
Around the World
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Servicing all makes of ranges, covering East Anglia, East Midlands & London/M25
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Altogether Now!
Acquired with the support of a £1.1m funding package.
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Take Care & Keep Safe!
Range manufacturer KFE offer some great tips to owners during lockdown period.
Kurt’s Reawakening
Es 30 tab Ye lish ar ed s
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New Look, Same High Quality
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Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • April 2020
Frying Range Engineers
• • • • •
Refurbished / Rebuilds / New Traditional & Dutch Makes Extraction Systems & Ductwork Shopfitting Design & Refurbishment Fire Damage, Repairs & Upgrades
For prompt, efficient service please call:
01553 772935
sales@klsonline.co.uk Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • April 2020 In association with
Frying Ranges
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Brand New Look, Same High Quality! Since we began trading in the 1980’s, Collins Seafoods has been an integral part of the UK’s Frozen at Sea supply chain, delivering only the highest quality products to restaurants, takeaways and wholesalers from our depots in County Durham and Leeds. We are proud to be one of the industry leaders in bringing the UK and Ireland sustainably caught fish with full traceability.
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ince we began trading in the 1980’s, Collins Seafoods has been an integral part of the UK’s Frozen at Sea supply chain, delivering only the highest quality products to restaurants, takeaways and wholesalers from our depots in County Durham and Leeds. We are proud to be one of the industry leaders in bringing the UK and Ireland sustainably caught fish with full traceability. This summer we are excited to share our company rebrand with you all. We have been working extremely hard behind the scenes over the last twelve months to develop a new and modern identity, whilst keeping the values and integrity of the current Collins brand. Both Collins Seafoods and Wraggs Seafoods will now become part of the Collins Seafoods Limited Group and will be individually known as; Collins Seafoods North East and Collins Seafoods Yorkshire. You may have already spotted part of our rebranding happening around you. Our delivery vans have had a makeover and in the coming weeks all of our drivers will be wearing brand-new uniform. We are very excited to be launching our new and improved, fully responsive, website this summer, which will now cover both of our depots. As part of the rebrand, we will be merging all of our social media to allow for faster response times and a stronger company presence. This in turn will give us the opportunity to deliver offers, promotions, industry and company information to all of our customers at once! This is an exciting time for us here at
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Collins Seafoods and we would like to take this opportunity to thank all of our customers, partners and suppliers for their ongoing support and custom.
Contact Collins Seafoods North East Unit 2, Park 2000, Millennium Way, Heighington Lane Business Park, Newton Aycliffe, DL5 6AR Tel: 01325 315544 Email: sales@collinsseafoods.co.uk Web: www.collinsseafoods.co.uk Collins Seafoods Yorkshire Unit 2, Felnex Crescent, Cross Green Industrial Estate, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS9 0SN Tel: 0113 249 8832 Email: sales@wraggsseafoods.co.uk Web: www.wraggsseafoods.co.uk
A side note to our customers, suppliers and partners During the Coronavirus pandemic here in the UK, we are taking precautions to protect the health and wellbeing of our customers, drivers, staff and their families. The safety of our customers and staff always has been and always will be our biggest priority and we are closely monitoring the government guidelines and legislations. If you show any signs of the coronavirus after interaction with a member of our staff please inform our offices as soon as possible. You can contact our team via the details above. As the situation changes and develops we will continue to take precautionary measures as advised by the NHS and the UK government. Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • April 2020
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COLLINS SEAFOODS BRINGING YOU THE TASTE OF THE SEA SINCE 1980
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COLLINS SEAFOODS - NORTH EAST: Unit 2, Park 2000, Heighington Lane Business Park, Chippy NewtonChat Aycliffe, County Durham, DL5 6AR 7 Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • April 2020 & Fast Food Magazine • April 2020T 013257 315544 COLLINS SEAFOODS - YORKSHIRE: Unit 2, Felnex Crescent, Cross Green Industrial Estate, Leeds, LS9 0SN
T 0113 249 8832
Grant’s for the Needy Mary Janes donates food to the community.
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e have seen many stories of shops doing some fantastic things during this time of peril. The owner of one of Norfolk’s most popular fish and chip shops has donated more than eight tonnes of potatoes as he is forced to close due to the coronavirus lock down. Grant Zelos, owner of Mary Janes in Cromer, has been travelling to care homes in north Norfolk delivering potatoes and fish. The 56-year-old said: “It’s been a hard decision but it is the right thing for the country and everything should be locked down. “I didn’t expect to close when I did and I had a few tonnes of potatoes. I thought ‘I don’t need them’, but there are a lot of care homes around with the elderly and sick, so I thought I’d give it all away.” Mary Janes has been a family business for more than 40 years with Mr Zelos starting work with his parents in 1977. The business is run with his son, daughter and son-in-law, and they wanted to give something back to the community. “Me and my son went around to any care home that answered the phone and kept filling the van up and going round,” he added.
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“I started handing bags to people I knew who couldn’t get out of the house, family, friends and even people just wandering the streets. I asked if they wanted fish as well. “We’ve always done what we can for the community, just to try to give back what they have given.” Mr Zelos’ charity comes at a time when many businesses will be cutting costs and facing an uncertain future. But he says in these tough times people need to come first. He added: “I’ve gone countless miles and I’m stiff and sore from lifting potatoes around but I think we’ve helped a lot of people.” “I’ve given at least 1.5 tonnes of potatoes out and seven stone of cod and haddock. It’s things that would have perished but I thought ‘what’s the point, people need food’. “Money doesn’t matter in this time, everyone’s taking a hit, a lot more people are worse off than I am and I just wanted to do my bit for the community.” Mary Janes, in Garden Street, Cromer is closed for the foreseeable future. What have you done to help others in this time of need? Email austen@ chippychat.co.uk
Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • April 2020
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Congratulations to The UK’s Best Fish & Chip Takeaway, The Cod’s Scallops who frys in Nortech Superior. For the tastiest results go Superior, the most respected, refined and deodorised beef dripping in the business
It’s naturally lower in trans fats, non-hydrogenated and delivers the highest performance with the greatest economy. Use Superior high frying fat and enhance the taste of your fried food.
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Box contains 20kg (4 x 5kg)
For your nearest stockist calllower 01302 It’s naturally in trans fats,390880 non-hydrogenated and delivers Chippy Chat & Fastwith Food Magazine • April 2020 the highest performance the or visit www.nortechfoods.co.uk greatest economy. Use Superior
From the modest potato chip to the finest fish fillet it’s all about 9 what you Chippy & Fast Food Magazine • April 2020 fry itChat in. For the tastiest results go Superior, the most respected, refined and deodorised beef dripping in the business.
high frying fat and enhance the taste of your fried food.
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Top T-Rump! Traditional Steak & Stilton Pie Takes Top Spot at Th British Pie Awards 2020
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he 12th British Pie Awards has crowned its Supreme Champion recently and – in a return to tradition – a Top Rump Steak & Stilton Pie has triumphed as the best British pie of 2020. The world-renowned Awards, which take place annually in the Rural Capital of Food Melton Mowbray, saw close to 900 pies entered by a whopping 160 professional bakers, butchers and chefs from around the country. The Awards mark the grand crescendo of British Pie Week, celebrated 2nd-8th March 2020. Made by family-run bakery, Turner’s Pies, the Top Rump Steak & Stilton Pie replaces last year’s Curried Sweet Potato and Butternut Squash Vegan Pie as champion. The West Sussex pie maker also took home the cup in 2018 with a near perfect score of 99/100. Speaking at the Awards, Chief Judge Colin Woodhead commended the pie for its attractive appearance with neat crimping on the edge and golden bake: “The pastry had an even thickness, with a crunchy rich texture. The filling was well balanced between meat and cheese which gave a subtle taste and the meat, though tender, still having ‘bite’. Overall a cracking pie!”. No stranger to Britain’s most hotly contested pie-athon, Turner’s has also won Class Champion in the Beef and Cheese Pie Class, picking up a full baker’s dozen of awards in total this year. British Pie Awards organiser Dr Matthew O’Callaghan said: “Turner’s 10
Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • April 2020
of Sussex certainly know how to make an excellent pie. They won Supreme Champion in 2018 with their Steak & Ale Pie and now they’ve done it again, but this time with Stilton cheese. Cheese in pies was a winning formula this year, appearing in five winning classes. “Besides winning the Supreme Champion - or ‘Pie of Pies’ - title, Turner’s also won three Highly Commended Awards, three Golds, four Silvers and two Bronzes. With their record, they are undisputedly Britain’s Best Pie Maker.” Claiming victory in the Vegan category, MUD Foods (also nicknamed Mud Pies) was judged Class Champion for its Squash, Spinach and Feta Pie. Highly Commended accolades were given to Chunk of Devon for its Vegan Spicy Jack Pie and Ginsters of Cornwall for its Vegan Quorn Pasty. A fan favourite from BBC documentary Life of Pies, Zainab Bilal of Pie Mezzanae has been awarded Class Champion in the Hot Eating Savoury Pie category for her Cheese & Onion bake. Nottinghamshire fish and chip shop, The Cod’s Scallops, has won a second national award having won Fish and Chip Shop of the Year at the National Fish & Chip Awards in January. This time, the East Midlands chippy scooped the top prize in the Fish & Chip Shop Class at the British Pie Awards for their chicken, leek, and ham pie. This is the second year that the fish and chip shop won top prize in the category at the British Pie Awards, coming first in 2019 with their steak and ale pie, and their vegan Balti pie also coming as runner up. We’re over the moon to have won top prize with our pie once again. I’m so proud of the hardworking team we have
Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • April 2020
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across all of our sites and our success this year is a credit to them.” – John Molnar, Founder of The Cod’s Scallops Also commended in the fish and chip pie award were Flyde Fish Bar for their homemade Steak Pie
Top 15 most unusual (and must try) flavours from this year’s British Pie Awards: Squirrel Pie Vegan Keralan Cauliflower & Onion Bhaji Pasty Strawberry & Prosecco Pie Pear and Chocolate Pie Vegetarian Brie, Cranberry & Stuffing Pie Mutton, Ginger & Apricot Pie Vegan Haggis Pie Honey Roast Lamb & Apricot Pie Chinese Aromatic Chicken with Black Truffle and Mushroom Medley Pie Duck with Black Cherries and Kirsch Pie Vegan Roasted Cauliflower and Dahl Naan Pie Duck, Cranberry & Bloody Ben’s Gin Pie Wild Boar, Apple Brandy, Tarragon & Chestnut Mushroom Pie Venison with Chinese Dried Kumquats Pie Pheasant with Goji Berries and Chestnuts in Port Pie Recipes dating back to the Middle Ages were also top crust hopefuls including College Pie made from cows’ heels and bacon, and Medley Pie (here called a Student Pie) inspired by 17th century cuisine. There were 23 classes in this year’s British Pie awards. To qualify for entry, there are only a few simple rules that must be adhered to: all pies must consist of a filling totally encased in pastry and baked. All entries must be commercially available in the UK. www.britishpieawards.co.uk 11
Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • April 2020
Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • April 2020
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Your Chance to Win a FREE Pallet of Frymax12.5kg Worth Over £1,000!
This is your chance to win Eighty, yes Eighty boxes of Frymax 12.5kg. To enter simply access the Frymax website, www Frymax .co.uk, sign up as a member (membership is free) then go to the Competion section and submit the answer to the question below: Simply answer the following question... In what year was Frymax first established?
1944, 1954, 1964 or 1974
Entries will be accepted up to March 31st and the winner will then be drawn at random. Don't forget that as well as competitions and giveaways, being a Frymax member provides access to video guides, expert technical advice and a wealth of resources to help UK Fryers provide the very best fried foods for their customers.
RSPO-2-0677-16-100-00
The Fryers’ Favourite For Over 65 Years. 12
For information, advice, or customer support material please contact ADM Trading (UK) Limited. e-mail: frymaxinfo@adm.com www.frymax.co.uk Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • April 2020
Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • April 2020
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For Perfect Fish & Chips Every Time
Simply Open the Box There is Frymax and then there are other cooking oils. Open a box of Frymax and you will see pure white premium palm. It is additive free, contains no hydrogenated oil and less than 1% trans fats. It is sourced from approved certified production units and is 100% sustainable and traceable. Frymax has not changed in over sixty five years! Why? Because we and top Fryers know that Frymax guarantees delicious fish and Chips every time. When you see the word Frymax on the box you know that you are buying the very best for your customers. There is no substitute for quality. If it is not Frymax it simply isn’t good enough.
RSPO-2-0677-16-100-00
The Fryers’ Favourite For Over 65 Years. For information, advice, or customer support material please contact ADM Trading (UK) Limited. e-mail: frymaxinfo@adm.com 13
Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • April 2020
www.frymax.co.uk Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • April 2020
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Evergreens Leading Catering Supplier Grows Its Green Planet Brand…
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HE SUCCESS of a range of environmentally friendly products has led to one of the UK’s leading hospitality suppliers establishing a dedicated brand. The IG Group – which has bases in both the North East and London – last year launched its Green Planet division to respond to the demand of the industry. And the success of those products has resulted in the company setting up Green Planet Catering Products, which will now offer even more of the most eco-friendly items available. The positive response from the industry to the initial products in the range has been the driving force behind the company’s launch of this new initiative – with a catalogue which will be updated every six months to reflect the need to comply with legal requirements on compliant materials. “This is a very fast-moving area and products which were seen as a good alternative to single use plastics may be banned in the future,” said Stephen Hoey, CEO of The IG Group. “We have taken on board the many requirements of our clients and can now offer solutions for every kind of catering outlet. “What we are offering reflects the changes in eating habits, with more street food and outdoor eating, which means more disposable products which need to be environmentally friendly.” He added, “Green Planet offers a onestop-shop across every range, which will continue to grow and be updated.” “It can be a minefield for anyone wanting to be more environmentally aware but who is not sure of what it all means. “That’s why, as well as offering enhanced ranges, we will also have the expertise via
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the new company to advise customers on what is best for their needs.” The new company is dividing its products into “compostable”, “recyclable” and “reusable.” Products available will include hot and cold cups, cutlery, tableware made from natural resources such as naturally fallen palm leaves and sugar cane and replacement options for fast food boxes. Environmentally friendly pizza boxes and kebab cartons made of an alternative to polystyrene are part of the recyclable ranges, with a huge selection of plantbased cleaning products also on offer. Green Planet has even managed to find environmentally friendly items such as mop buckets and ‘danger – wet floor’ signs, along with cleaning cloths which can be washed and used around ten times before being suitable for recycling. “We have spent a great deal of time sourcing a whole range of products which we believe our customers will appreciate because of their desire to be more environmentally friendly,” said Mr Hoey. “And the launch of Green Planet Catering Products means we can be ahead of the game in terms of what we can offer and the expertise we can provide.” The products are available throughout the UK via the company’s wide network of distributors.
For more information, visit www.iggroup.com How are you helping to save the planet? Email austen@chippychat.co.uk Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • April 2020
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Fabulous
Fish Roe Fritters A PROTEIN PACKED NUTRITIOUS MEAL
MAKE A DIFFERENCE. CHOOSE GUARANTEED SUSTAINABLE FISH.
Please contact your local distributor/ r/ 15 supplier for further information. Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • April 2020 Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • April 2020
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Alexa Knows Your Plaice! Natta partners with Other Side Fried to launch UK’s first voice-powered takeaway delivery service
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atta, the London-based Voice Tech company, is delighted to announce that it has launched the United Kingdom’s first end to end takeaway delivery service via Amazon Alexa smart speaker. Alexa currently hosts some limited food ordering apps which mainly allow you to reorder food items previously purchased via smartphone. Natta allows users to enjoy the full takeaway experience on Alexa - regardless of whether the customer has ordered from the restaurant before or knows the menu. Natta have partnered with Londonbased iconic Brixton restaurant Other Side Fried (www.othersidefried.com) to offer busy customers this unique service. You order via Alexa and get it delivered via our courier - with all voice orders enjoying a 25 per cent discount. Natta founder Jon Sprank is convinced voice control is the future - with 55% of households being expected to own smart speakers by 2022. He said: “I got a smart speaker and was astounded at how little you could do with it. I wanted to order my takeaway on it and, having worked in the London F&B scene as the European Sales Director for
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iZettle, I knew the space well and set out to do it myself.” “At the moment the app is exclusively operational within 1.5 miles of Other Side Fried Brixton Central but this is just the start. We are working on a voice-first food delivery marketplace that we will be rolling out across London and the UK in the next few months. “Consumers will finally be able to use voice assistants to research, select and order from their favourite restaurants, just as if they were having a conversation with a friend.” How it works Open the Amazon Alexa app on your smartphone, head to the skills & games section, search for ‘Other Side Fried’ and click on the enable button. Know what you want? Easy - order and check out in one sentence. Just ask Alexa to connect you with Other Side Fried and list the items you’d like to order. Not sure what you want? No problem. Alexa will send the menu to your phone straight away. You’ll find it in the Activity section of your Alexa app. Have a read and let Alexa know your pick. Creature of habit? If you always order the same thing, all you need to do is asking Alexa to send you your last order from Other Side Fried. How are you using technology? Email austen@chippychat.co.uk
Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • April 2020
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Top Shops Find Out What Makes Our No 1 Potatoes So Good
Only the finest potatoes from A L Lee Farming Company’s fields and stores make it into their No 1 bags – The No1 Chipping Potatoes. We are growers of quality chipping potatoes which are available right the way through from now until July. We are the No 1 choice for Markies, Maris Piper, Divva, Agria, Ramos, Royal and Performer. We were proud to have over 100 chip shop owners at our farm finding out just why we are the best. Malachy Mallon owner of the Award Winning Dolphin in Dungannon said “With AL Lee producing quality potatoes like the No1 it makes our job so much easier” Our chippy customers love to fry our No1 chipping potatoes. Contact your merchant and ask for No 1 from AL Lee through Isle of Ely produce today, or call the number below.
01353 863355 www.allee-farms.co.uk 17
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Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • April 2020 Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • October 2019
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Bigger is better! M
ayflower has been producing their ever popular Curry Sauce Mix in retail packets for over 30 years since opening their doors in 1985 which has made Mayflower become a prominent household name in the U.K. The sought-after Curry Sauce Mix in retail packs has led the company to create their long awaited Southern Style Gravy Mix. Much like the Curry Sauce, the gravy has also become a popular choice for consumers within the home nationwide. And sales are only predicted to sky rocket as more people realise how delicious these sauces are. As well as retail packs, Mayflower also produce these in catering sized 4.54kg buckets that are ideal for pubs, cafés, takeaways, restaurants and commercial eateries (or even individuals that can’t get enough). The generous bucket size and competitive pricing of the sauce mixes means the price per portion is lower than you’d think and tastes a million bucks. Mayflower sauce mixes come in ambient form making storage easy and the shelf life long, this means not having to stock up regularly saving space and money. Having a long shelf-life and a resealable bucket means you can take as much as you need without worrying about wastage ensuring further profits and an eased conscience. The quick and easy process of making up the sauces from Mayflower allows for these to be made to order or made in bulk without hassle. Simply add cold water, and follow the instructions on the bucket and the sauces will be ready in less than 5 minutes with zero difficulty or fuss in the process. These sauces are vegan friendly and low in calories meaning these sauces already appeal to a wide variety of customers and providing multiple unique selling points to get new customers in the door and give the loyal excising customers a reason to come back. All Mayflower products are manufactured in a 15,000 square foot BRC Grade A factory and the recipe created by an onsite chef, which is overseen by one of the brothers who launched the family business, ensuring the highest levels of consistency and quality in their products. Using Mayflower’s versatile sauce mixes, you can create dishes from a range of different cuisines including Chinese, fish ‘n’ chips, roast dinners, pies, fried chicken, burgers and much more. Chicken topped with either of the sauces is a personal favourite of many! Don’t believe us? Listen to some real satisfied and happy customers ‘The gravy is perfect with chicken and chips and we love the curry over chicken fried rice’ @whatsianeats_sw, ‘If you haven’t tried Mayflower’s Chinese curry sauce yet you MUST!’ @sw_hendersons ‘Mayflower gravy, in love with the stuff, especially over chicken’ @healthy_holly_mfp Believe us yet?
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Visit - www.mayflower.co.uk
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Invigorating! Hewigo offers real value through innovation and investment
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ewigo has taken significant steps to strengthen many areas that our customers tell us are so important to them. More than £600,000 has been invested across the whole company in a fibre cutting machine, hybrid pressbrake and state of the art shearing machine. Making the manufacturing at Oldbury in the West Midlands more automated and efficient these developments will give even more value, which is already being felt by our customers. In addition in excess of £200,000 has been spent to equip our new Service Department for the challenges of the next few years. Underpinned by our highlyrated Annual Service Contract where customers can opt for one of two levels, the best of which gives: No call out charge, a zero hourly rate, annual service included, breakdown response within 48 hours and 20% discount on gas and electrical parts. All have benefitted from the creativity of both our UK and Dutch engineers. We were the first to introduce High Efficiency and in fact we are the only manufacturer to have wellestablished factories in the UK and the Netherlands. R e c e n t d eve l o p m e n t s include:
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Cr ystal heated s er ving counter. Here the top of the counter can be inset with glass, often with a crystal ‘crazed’ effect which is colour-lit by LED from below. The visual effect is most unusual and also means the top of the counter is warm to the touch. Intelligent Chip Box Almost all chip box heating is controlled by Simmerstat this works on electrical resistance which may result in the need for constant control by the operator and an uneven temperature. Hewigo have introduced a thermostatically controlled heat box which detects temperature and controls automatically to a pre-set value. We have combined this with a fan heater to provide more even distribution of heat within the chip box. The result is a better product. The financial capacity within both Hewigo companies means constant innovation, stylish options and the latest technology. So, as a customer you can be assured that not only are you getting a best value range but also that Hewigo is committed to the future to offer service, parts and business support in a challenging environment.
Contact Hewigo (UK) Ltd Bateman House Little Fields Way Oldbury West Midlands B69 2BT Visit: www.hewigo.com T: 0121 544 9120 E: sales@hewigo.com
The UK’s
No.1
Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • April 2020
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manufacture Efficiency fry
The Engineer who services your Hewigo Range is probably the one who built it! That’s the sort of personal relationship that comes with a Hewigo Range.
With our highly rated, Service Contract you can look forward to:
• No call out charge • Zero hourly rate • FREE annual service • 24hr rapid response • 20% off parts Many of our engineers started as apprentices and some have over 20 years’ experience so they know what’s important to you.
• Minimum disruption to your business
Reliability and value. Today and tomorrow. 0121 544 9120 www.hewigo.com 21 Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • April 2020
advantag Bateman House, Little Fields Way. Oldbury, West Midlands, B69 2BT Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • April 2020
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T. Quality launches its on-line ordering system early due to the Corona Virus T. Quality was planning to launch its online ordering system in May but due to the current climate and after vigorous testing by employees and customers it is now available and up and running.
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ebbie Reeve Crook, T. Quality Marketing Manager said: Our customers were asking for the ability to order online and so we listened. To produce such a complex back-end system that is intuitive and easy to use for the customer was the hardest part, but finally we are delighted with the outcome. We understand that offering an online ordering facility is how a lot of our customers wish to order as many are open outside the traditional working day. During these difficult times T. Quality are keeping the lorries on the road and the Click and Collect service open. They are delivering to all their regular customers and with the introduction of the new Government guidelines, will also include pubs and restaurants that have introduced a delivery service rather than closing entirely. “We are encouraging our customers to order online, and the ordering system will show what products are available.
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Our Call and Collect have seen a massive increase in orders and we have put measures in place to fulfil them all whilst acknowledging the safety of our staff.” Said Mike Crees, Managing Director. “We have new stock coming in every day and as the supermarkets key essentials are in high demand and low supply, we are confident to be able to help during this uncertain time. We sell a complete range of food products for the commercial sector and the public, but people are less aware of our speciality in fresh frozen fish and that we offer cleaning products as well as toilet rolls”. Current customers can register and start straight away, whilst members of the general public can sign in as a ‘guest’, and order products using their Click and Collect service located at the depot’s. Mass buying in supermarkets is different from bulk buying at a wholesaler. Buying cases of products is normal practise and this is what T. Quality is set up to do. Many neighbourhoods across the country are now having one person buying in bulk and then distributing to their friends and family’s household doorsteps. It means that just one person is assigned to collect the food and can cater for those more vulnerable or in self-isolation. The Government has stated that Wholesale businesses such as T. Quality are included within the critical workers category and so they will continue to help keep a healthy food supply across the country. Anyone wanting to use this service can go to T. Qualities website – www.tquality.co.uk. Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • April 2020
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23 Order online: www.store.tquality.co.uk Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • April 2020
Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • April 2020
Shap, Crackle & Pop! Although shut at time of publication, we wanted to document their amazing journey through the Seafish National Fish & Chip Awards.
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ell, where to start? As we said in our presentation, we didn’t buy a fish and chip shop to enter the awards, but we are so glad that we did. We have owned Shap Chippy for nearly 2 years now and what a crazy 2 years it has been. Our journey through the awards started with the application, then mystery shops which took us to Top 60 and we were blown away, not expecting to make it that far, we were buzzing! The team were super energised and engaged to see how far we could actually make it. Waiting for Mystery shoppers to come, at the beginning, made the team quite nervous, however we reminded them that we do what, we do for the customers, we should produce excellent fish and chips every single time with the best customer
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service to boot. Then we made it to Top 20, and that’s when our amazing team started to get competitive and I’ll be honest, its actually since then we have the most engaged and passionate team, either of us have ever worked with. We have always allowed the team to give their input and share their ideas, and to then implement those ideas and push them to make Shap Chippy the best it can be. Then we made Top 10, after the audit ‘battle of the shops’ round, which meant Ashley was off to Norway. Ashley couldn’t believe how awe inspiring this trip was. To not only be spending time with other business at the top of their game, but to be enjoying the best seafood in a beautiful country was truly a once in a life time experience, one he will always treasure. Also, to see how these fishermen live and work, and the efforts they put in to get the best products into our Chippies really cemented our belief that Cod and Haddock should be treated with the up most respect in honour of their hard work. Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • April 2020
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It was soon time to head to London to deliver our presentation and attend the awards, which let me tell you came around VERY quickly! It was a nerve-racking couple of days, but once the presentation was delivered and we walked out that room, we knew we have done everything we could and we had to just wait and see. We invited our management team and the previous owners to join us at the awards ceremony, where we took home the Marketing Innovation Award 2020 and runner up Best fish and Chip Shop 2020, which believe me we were not expecting at all! To be in this industry for such a short amount of time and to walk away 2nd place to the amazing Cod Scallops is a huge achievement. Since the awards, again I’ll be honest we felt like we won, and before you scoff, I know we didn’t. We have been riding high as a team and as owners. From Radio interviews, Magazine and Newspaper features, they have not only covered the win but also promoted Shap Chippy, and Ashley have been on BBC radio repeatedly promoting the shop and Fish & Chips which is great. The team morale is still at an all time high, and they are all keen to compete again in the future. 25
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What have we learned from this experience? That there is always something to learn, to be better at, to push for and to engage the team to achieve. We are so proud of how far we and the team have come, and this year we have some amazing PR planned across 2020 (virus interrupted), so you can be sure you will see Shap Chippy around for a long time to come.
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Take Care & Range manufacturer KFE offer some great tips to owners during lockdown period.
O
ver the last few days and weeks, many of you have taken the heartbreaking decision to close your
doors. This is a tough time for us all, but we will get through it and we will come back stronger. In the meantime, we’ve put together a few housekeeping tips (from Paul, Tanya and the team) as well as suggestions for things you might want to consider doing while you are closed. Turn off power – Electric can be turned off at the isolator, while gas should be switched off by turning the shut off valve to ‘off’. Empty your pans – Safely remove most of the oil from your pans, leaving a little at the bottom so as not to let your pans rust. Clean down your range – Clean down your entire range, including behind the baffles and the filter drawer, to restore it back to new. Get it gleaming – Spray your range with a good quality stainless steel cleaner and
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thoroughly wipe down. It’s a good idea to take out any removeable components, such as the chip box insert, baffles and lexan, as this will allow everything to dry off and get a good airing. Deep clean your takeaway – Give your takeaway a thorough clean including high up areas of walls and ceilings, behind and under equipment as well as inside equipment like ovens, microwaves, fridges and freezers. Not only will a deep clean ensure that you’re complying with legal requirements, it should also prolong the life of your equipment. Distribute any leftover perishable food – Speak to local charities, food banks, families or people living alone and see if they can make use of any leftover food. Check the use-by-date of any tins and jars and pass these over too. Plan for events later in the year – There are plenty of national events like National Fish & Chip Day, Fish and Chip Awards & British Food Fortnight, but there may be more local ones too you can support once the industry is back on its feet. You could always ask your staff to think about
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Keep Safe! events they might like to support. Manuals and paperwork – Ensure these are up-to-date and think about how they could be improved. In light of current events, you may want to make changes to some of your practices and these will need to be communicated to staff. Contact your suppliers – Let your suppliers know you are closing and settle any invoices that you are due. If you are unable to pay, work something out together. They would rather know now about any difficulties so they can budget too. Staff training – Your shop might be closed but you are maybe still paying staff why not consider online health and safety or food hygiene courses they could be doing while they are at home? Keep in touch with staff – We don’t know how long the current situation will go on for so be sure to keep in touch with all your staff as you’ll need them raring to go when you reopen. Social media – Update your social media pages with the steps you are taking and
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anything you might be doing to help your community. Talk to your accountant – They are best placed to understand all the latest government advice and they will have a good grasp of your finances too, so book some time in with them to talk. Insurance – Could your insurance policy do with updating in light of current events? While it might take a while to get through on the phone at the moment you could get some quotes online. Secure your empty building – Your property may be closed for a couple of week or a couple of months, we just don’t know so ensure it is safe and secure. You may need to invest in additional equipment such as CCTV, alarms and shutters for peace of mind. Have a well-earned rest – It’s been a stressful and worrying time – and will continue to be so for some time to come – but try and relax and enjoy time with your family.
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Herald Meets Takeaway Demand Quality disposables manufacturer and supplier, Herald has stepped up its supply of foil trays, lids and bagasse hot boxes and burger boxes in a bid to support its growing customer base at this critical time.
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ith pubs and restaurants operating as hot food takeaways during the coronavirus outbreak, Herald is meeting increased demand and supplying to the wider market, alongside its usual food to go and chip shop customers. Herald has also seen a rise in demand for its paper, single and double wall, 8 oz, 12 oz and 16 oz hot paper cups and plastic cups as the UK public follows the Government’s advice and avoids social settings, opting to enjoy drinks on the go. Managing director of Herald, Yogesh Patel comments on the company’s current focus: “Our disposable goods are in high demand at the moment and we’re working around the clock to ensure that we meet our customers’ needs and keep the supplies flowing. “These are uncertain times for everyone and we need to be prepared to react in order to best support all of our customers, including chip shops, takeaways and those in the pub and restaurant trade, so that they can continue operating to protect their livelihoods. “Our aim is to have the widest selection of disposables available, while ensuring
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the fastest possible delivery.” Herald is also supplying a full range of hygiene wear, including gloves, aprons and hats, along with disposable cutlery. Its popular Mr Chip birchwood chip fork continues to be a popular choice in chip shops around the UK as more establishments switch from plastic to wooden, more environmentally-friendly disposables. The company’s natural birchwood cutlery selection is part of its quality Rootier range, which includes a mix of wooden stirrers, skewers, ice-cream and lolly sticks, ice-cream spoons and chopsticks. Yogesh comments: “Choice has always been key to the Herald brand and we’re constantly extending our overall range to cover a full mix of materials, including eco and completely compostable choices. It’s great to be associated with a full selection of eco-friendly products, including the easily identifiable ‘Mr Chip’, which is a long time favourite for so many of our customers.” With over thirty years since its inception, the company is renowned for its vast catalogue of goods that provides an unrivalled breadth of choice. It’s been careful not to sacrifice quality for price and adheres to a standard, refusing to stock products that fall below a certain grade in order to protect the company’s reputation and its customers’ expectation. For further information on Herald and its products, log on to www.heraldplastic. com or call 0208 507 7900. Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • April 2020
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HIGHER QUALITY, GREENER DISPOSABLES
Bagasse & wood and a wide selection of other eco-friendly products Give your customers the opportunity to choose a considered, eco-friendly alternative with Herald’s full range of bagasse and wooden products.
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From bagasse plates, bowls, chip trays and boxes, in a full range of sizes, to wooden chip forks and cutlery, Herald offers a wide and varied selection of biodegradable, quality ‘food to go’ disposables, allowing you to boost your eco-credentials while meeting customer demand for a more environmentally-friendly choice.
Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • April 2020
Call: 0208 507 7900 29 Chat & Fast Food Magazine • April 2020 Email:Chippy sales@heraldplastic.com
Altogether Now! The Farm (Open Day 2020)! Get Your FREE Tickets! - Isle of Ely Industry Open Day By Austen Dack
I
sle of Ely Produce and Chippy Chat HOPE to once again open their doors to chip shop owners and managers in 2020, to show you why you should be asking for Isle of Ely Produce potatoes from your merchant! We are monitoring the Covid-19 situation closely and will keep you uptodate with any delay or postponement. Last year the day was invaluable not only did chip shop owners and staff see first-hand the journey a potato makes (from seed through to field & farm) before it reaches their shops, but they also found out how the 2018/19 potato crop was fairing, giving them heads up on both expected cost and quality of the crop. This year we plan to let you know how the 2020 crop looks and also of how we are looking to new varieties which can grow in ever changing environments It was also a day for friers to get together in a unique environment and exchange tips, try new products and also listen first hand to presentations across the day from industry experts. In 2019 we had over 140 friers and suppliers join us for one of the best
industry days out of the year and 2020 we already have lots of owners and friers registered to attend. The event will be held on Sunday 6th September (9.30 am start) in Ely, Cambridgeshire and will be available on a first come first served basis. It is FREE for all chip shop owners and managers. The day is once again supported by the NFFF. It is an important day for suppliers too, as much of the day will be spent exchanging ideas from across the industry, and attendees are given key time to talk to sponsors/exhibitors on the day. In fact, we are offering suppliers a great rate to attend on the day to come and show friers what they do. With prices from just £249, (to help us pay for the day) why not come and display your products. If you need a bigger space please call/ email us and we will tailor the package to your needs. Already we have a great line up of speakers pencilled in including National Fish and Chip Takeaway winners The Cod’s Scallops, Young Frier Charlie Collins, The Wetherby Whaler, Nana Jan’s, Shap Chippy and more TBC.
Last year there were a plethora of top industry speakers on the stage, and this year pomises to be better still
Get in the Frame
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North West
Anthony Swift (Liverpool) Reliable daily deliveries throughout the North-West Guaranteed quality supplies throughout the year.
Specialist supplier to fish and chip shops Meet up with old friends, and trade contacts.
0151 526 5318 aj.swift@live.com
Call the Potato Professionals Today
Delivering quality potatoes throughout your region
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NORTH YORKSHIRE
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NOTTI NG
A few of the products and services on show at last years event.
D SH IR E
Established 80yrs
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Fixed price contracts available Potatoes replaced within 12hrs in the unlikely event of you being dissatisfied All batches rigorously checked and test fried Ring today for your free sample
Lomas Potatoes
Sponsors and suppliers for the day in 2019 included Middleton Foods, Kerry Food Service, Drywite, Pukka Pies, Seafood from Norway, Frymax, Friars Pride, KFE, T Quality, VITO, P J Lee & Sons, Seafish, Keejays, Smales, Florigo, Premier 1 Filtration, BD Signs, A L Lee Farming Company Please contact me if you would like to sponsor speak and/or exhibit? Also, included in the day will be an educational visit to a potato farm in Cambridgeshire. Isle of Ely Produce sell potatoes through merchants across the UK. Make sure you ask
your supplier what potatoes he has that have come via Isle of Ely Produce. In the evening many people stay on in Ely and meet up later for a meal and a few drinks whilst discussing the latest trends in the industry and how everyone can get involved with promoting fish and chips! If you would like to attend the event please email austen@ chippychat.co.uk (as a chip shop) or exhibit/sponsor please call Austen Dack on 07863 123 929. Maximum 4 FREE tickets per shop.
There‘ll be an educational visit to a potato farm in Cambridgeshire
01909 562327 07932 155677 (Andy)
(3 lines)
(S,Yorks, N,Yorks, Notts)
07703 263033 (Garry) (E,Yorks, N,Yorks, W,Yorks)
allomas@btconnect.com
Midlands, Wales & South-West
P o t a t o e s
L t d
Now Supplying North and West London Mitchell Potatoes (Estab 1883) is proud to be one of the UK’s longest established potato merchants, a record built on quality and reliability. Consistent quality: Our large supplier base and vigilant quality control helps provide consistent quality all year round. Punctual deliveries: We run a fleet of modern vehicles with 24hr breakdown assistance.
Annual fixed price contracts: We offer fixed price contracts to help you manage your budget without the worries of price fluctuations. We stock all frying varieties.
01926 633 323
www.mitchells-potatoes.co.uk
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Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • April 2020
@mitchellpots
Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • April 2020
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Mitchell Potatoes
Weathering the storm together The Norwegian industry vows to support the UK fish & chip sector through thick and thin
A
note from Hans Frode Kielland Asmyhr, UK Director, Norwegian Seafood Council “We certainly are living through unprecedented times, but it is important to recognise that we are living through these together – as a passionate, talented industry and as friends. As shops, you have served above and beyond and become true pillars of the community to keep locals nourished during this unfathomable time of need. Whether you remain open or take a hiatus in service, please know that you have our continued support. The Norwegian industry is focused on maintaining exports of sustainable seafood to the UK for those who need it, and we will personally keep you updated with news on export developments and logistics while the pandemic is amongst us. Fish & Chips has always been the heart of the British nation and long may this continue. It is safe to say that we look forward to an almighty Fish & Chip feast with you all once this crisis is over! Take care, spend time with your loved ones and please stay safe.” The Norwegian seafood industry will continue to provide safe, sustainable and nutritious seafood during the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic. Wild fisheries are considered of critical importance to society. The Norwegian government and industry, along with the transport sector and other areas of the value chain, are working closely in a bid to maintain production and supply of Norwegian seafood. Catches and production stand strong
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“We have seen a real drive to keep Norwegian seafood production and exports going amid the pandemic. Producers and their customers all over the world are finding solutions and overcoming hurdles to deliver nutritious and top-quality seafood, despite the crisis. So far, production levels and catches are at a relatively normal level.” Renate Larsen, CEO, Norwegian Seafood Council The Norwegian industry is agile in adapting to shifts in buyer preference and are turning production to meet specific customer needs. Logistics are challenging; however, efforts are being made to maintain all shipments and cargo activities to ensure a steady supply of Norwegian seafood around the globe. Seafood from Norway is still safe to eat The Norwegian Food Safety Authority has confirmed that the virus does not affect seafood safety and the governmental body is also maintaining capacity to handle border controls and issue export certificates for seafood and other products, ensuring that food safety controls are upheld. Sustainability and critical research are not on hold Elsewhere, The Institute of Marine Research has also taken measures to ensure that critical functions remain operative. While many of their employees are working from home, Director of Marine Research, Sissel Rogne, is making sure that the most important activities are being handled and remain key priorities, such as data for advice on quotas and stock, to ensure sustainability is always on the agenda.
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The Cod’s Scallops, Wollaton 2020 Fish and Chip Shop of the Year Steve Calvert MD at Premier 1 Filtration, said:
“Congratulations to The Cod’s Scallops, Wollaton and all winners at the 2020 National Fish & Chip Awards.
Premier1 Filtration are one of the major suppliers of Filter Machines, Filter Papers and Filter Pads to Fish and Chip Shops, Takeaways, Restaurants, Schools and Hospitals across the UK and Europe. We are a proud supplier to the Number 1 fish and Chip shop in the UK.
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”
Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • April 2020
Premier1 Filtration Great North Road Brompton On Swale North Yorkshire DL10 7JL Phone/Fax: - 01325 377189 07836 370234 www.premier1filtration.com Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • April 2020
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Kurt’s Reawakening An established fish and chips restaurant in Wakefield have recently been acquired with the support of a £1.1m funding package.
K Producing Quality Cambridgeshire Potatoes MarisProducing Piper - MarkiesQuality - Divaa - Agria Cambridgeshire Potatoes Our strength is continuity of supply Maris - Markies - Divaa - Agria CallPiper your local wholesaler today Our strength is continuity of supply Call your local wholesaler today and ask for PJ Lee Potatoes
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Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • April 2020
ingfishers on Calder Grove has been bought by Kurt McLoughlin. The 64seat venue is open seven days a week, as well as offering takeaway. McLoughlin is now planning to boost their turnover and also grow its team from 32 staff to 40. “The funding from HSBC UK has been crucial to supporting me in purchasing the business and after a successful start to operations we are now looking to increase our turnover in the next 12 months, with anticipated growth expected in the Kingfishers team,” McLoughlin said. (this was pre-virus). Ryan Slater, relationship manager for South & East Yorkshire at HSBC UK, added: “We are delighted to support Kurt with his purchase of such a popular fish and chip shop restaurant, and we believe that will be a huge success with continued growth for many years to come.” Have you received funding to help increase turnover? Email Austen@chippychat.co.uk Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • April 2020
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Fish & Shops!
Whilst many shops closed as they judged it was not safe to carry on some shops continued to open and deliver food as safely as possible.
A
fish and chip shop in Kenilworth were doing their bit (at time of press) to help the elderly and people self-isolating because of coronavirus. The team at School Lane Fish Bar offered a shopping delivery service and are also to delivery of fish and chip orders. Pat Barker, who has been manager at the shop for around 27 years and worked at the shop for a total of 31 years, said: “We are a trusty chip shop that takes pride in what we do - from personal hygiene, cleanliness of the shop, regular sanitising of work surfaces and equipment and taking extra care when preparing your food. We are also five star rated in terms of hygiene. We are prepared to go the extra mile to ensure our customers get duty of care to overcome COVID-19.” “I have talked to quite a few of my
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friends of mine who are over 70 and they have got heart problems and they have to self-isolate themselves and have said that they don’t know how they are going to get out shopping. This is a nice thing to do for the community and we can help them. “We were offering to do shopping for the elderly and those who are having to self-isolate and can’t get out. We were also offering to deliver fish and chips at the same time.” “Shopping now is a nightmare and I can only imagine what it is going to be like for someone who is older. We can do any shopping for them that they need and take it to their door. “There will be no delivery charge for these services as we are doing this as a good gesture.” How did you help the community during Covid-19? Email austen@ chippychat.co.uk Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • April 2020
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Abu Dhabi The Reem Island Chippy serves up an authentic chip shop experience in Abu Dhabi
By Andrew Scott – The National
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T
he long-awaited Chippy on Reem Island has finally opened, with its promise of an authentic UK fishand-chip-shop experience. I went to The Chippy with a degree of trepidation as I find that many of the chippies in the UAE offer a product and an ambience that are aw atered-down version of what’s served back home. I don’t know if it’s the fact that I’m eating fish and chips in sunshine and in shorts, or that the potatoes or fish aren’t even from the UK in most cases, but the experience is nearly always, as I’m sure Douglas Adams would have said, “almost, but not quite, entirely unlike fish and chips”. If you don’t understand the place of and love for fish and chips in British culture, consider there are about 10,500 specialist fish and chip shops in the UK, compared with 1,200 McDonalds and 840 KFCs.
Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • April 2020
Before I go on, when I say chips, I mean British chips – sort of French fries with attitude – deep-fried, serious oblongs of potato with no regard for calorie count or waistline. There really is no comparison between a fast-food French fry and British chippy chip. Hence my concerns at the opening of an outlet with claims of British authenticity. Those concerns were somewhat allayed when I looked at the menu – these people obviously knew what an authentic chippy offers. I also learnt that the restaurant sources its potatoes from Ireland, and its fish from Scotland and Northern Ireland, to further its promise of the full British experience. My eye was immediately drawn to the chip butty sitting proudly in the middle of the menu (this is a chip sandwich made with buttered white bread, and plenty of salt and vinegar), as well as curry sauce and gravy. The Chippy also offers brown sauce. My traditionalist side won out, though, and I ordered the battered cod, chips and mushy peas. Known as the Chippy special
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– Do! (Dh85), it also comes with six pieces of deep-fried scampi and gravy. I decided to eat in, but you can get a takeout in a box, the traditional newspaper being outlawed on health and safety grounds. Now for the taste test: The Chippy Special is a tour-de-force – the full English chip-shop experience. The chips are just greasy enough, and exactly the right size and consistency. I drowned them in vinegar with a sprinkle of salt and was transported back to my hometown. The batter on the cod was crisp and light with a reassuring crunch, and the cod meat wonderful. The mushy peas may not have been how I remembered them, but it was nice to have them as a healthy element to the meal. The final piece of the jigsaw was the gravy – I would normally expect onion gravy, but this was a dark, thick unction with no discernible vegetable involved. Pouring it over my chips, adding more vinegar, and eating my first “real” gravy and chips in a couple of decades was a sentimental moment. The tastes carried
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me back and flashes of the countless times I had eaten gravy and chips on the streets of Liverpool filled my senses. For those who crave the British chip shop experience, The Chippy delivers in more ways than one.
Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • April 2020
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Easy Pickings Kings Business Announce the Sale of Top Plaice Chip Shop By Austen Dack
W
hat a time to buy a chip shop! One couple have done just that and are still trading (at time of
press). This single storey premises in Wigan had positioned itself as a prominent takeaway outlet in the local area. Before this vacant chip shop property closed, it had a large customer base, and was a popular choice for food in the area. Its location was a significant strength for the chip shop. Being in close proximity to a large number of residential dwellings, and a prime main road frontage, the business had developed an excellent reputation. Prior to closing, Top Plaice Chip Shop was renowned for providing the best quality fish and chips in the local area. The vendor reached the decision to retire, leaving in place an excellent chip shop property to acquire. They also left in place an opportunity with significant potential for growth. Once it was brought to market, it
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generated substantial attention, from a variety of interested parties. It received a lot of enquiries, and after only 2 viewings and 1 offer, the business was eagerly acquired by Catherine and Gareth Bramhall. They have considerable experience in the sector, having run a mobile van for seven years and they were looking for a new venture to acquire. At time of writing they were still open (Covid) Gareth said, we are open Thursday Friday and Saturdays till this situation ends. We do our own deliveries and use Uber and Just Eat. Our supplier supplies to the NHS so they are still delivering We bought the shop in January but have had a mobile campervan chippy for 7 years, so the shop seemed like a natural progression. Already they have modernised the shop introduced delivery and giving it a complete re-brand Are you selling your chippy, email asuten@chippychat.co.uk
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