Chippy Chat - November 2022

A Smarter Batter for Consistent Results

Goldensheaf is the UK’s leading batter brand, developed using the very latest Kerry technology and specially designed to absorb at least 10% less oil which makes the batter stay crispier for longer... At Goldensheaf, we are passionate about providing quality batters to fish and chip shops nationwide.

The Goldensheaf formula guarantees every consumer the same great taste and consistently crispy texture with every order. Being exceptionally simple for shops to prepare, Goldensheaf’s batter solution provides operators with the opportunity to sell more fish and chips whilst ensuring consumers receive a superior-quality.

Paulo’s Fish & Chips is a family run business based in Cumbria. Owner Paul Fontana has been in the trade for over 55 years, first starting out with his father who taught him his craft.

For over 30 years they used various different brands in the shop, but made the switch to Goldensheaf Smart Batter 2 years ago, averaging around 25-30 bags per month. Impressed with the results, he now also uses Goldensheaf Gluten Free Batter alongside Kerry’s wide range of Dinaclass Curry Sauces.

We sat down with Paul to discuss why Goldensheaf is his batter of choice, and what the most important factors are for fish & chip shop owners when choosing a batter to suit the needs of their outlet.

Paulo’s is open 7 days a week with 6-7 different friars working at a time, so being able to trial the Goldensheaf Smart Batter mix was crucial. “It was all about getting the consistency just right” explains Paul, ‘the search for a quality batter that tastes great, has a good appearance and exceptional hold when it gets to the hot box is always on, and Goldensheaf delivered.”

“The product performs really well in the cooking process” he continued, “We were all really pleased with its crispiness and colour. It also has excellent consistency compared to any of the previous flours we’ve worked with, and generally performed across the board.”

According to business leaders from across the foodservice sector, the use of online technology and demand for delivery are the two most important long-term consumer trends impacting the industry. Paulo’s now offer homedelivery via 3 different platforms. Paul explained “it’s vital that the fish arrives to the customer with excellent hold, and fish that can keep its crispiness on delivery is the key to satisfied customers.” Since Paulo’s started using Goldensheaf Smart Batter, “there have been no soggy batter complaints!” Paul is pleased to share!

“The feedback from our loyal customers is that the fish had improved in texture since switching, which has increased our repeat business vastly”.

“I have a saying which was passed down from my father” says Paul, “If you put rubbish in a pan, you will get rubbish out. I can safely say, that Goldensheaf is a quality product that meets the needs of my friars and my customers. I can’t see myself using anything else!”

A quality golden crunch your customers will love

Friar’s Pride are our premier partner for this issue. They are promoting their FREE industry show, FRY IT which is to be held on March 5th 2023 at the Peterborough Showground. FREE tickets are available NOW from their website friarspride.com/info/ information/fryit.

Everyone at Chippy Chat thanks them for their support in 2022, and wishes them well for their show in 2023, we will see you there!

Unfortunately, the Chippy Chat ball for 2022 has once again been cancelled, but the good news is the next ball is planned for Sunday December 10th 2023.

We have lots of opportunities for companies to sponsor the evening and get involved too. Enclosed this month we have given you all a FREE year planner to put up in your shops. Sponsored once again by McWhinney’s and backed by many of our partners, it gives you the first chance to look ahead to 2023.

Keep in touch as usual if you have a story or if you would like to advertise, please email me at austen@chippychat.co.uk.

Austen

Austen

Editor

Now you can by entering this new class for Chefs announced by the National Ice Cream Competition.

The National Ice Cream Competition, run by the Ice Cream Alliance (ICA) - the only trade association for the UK ice cream sector, in partnership with the Craft Guild of Chefs, is delighted to announce a new class specifically for chefs in the UK.

“British chefs have been creating delicious ice creams for their customers for many years,” commented Ice Cream Alliance CEO

Zelica Carr. “We thought it was time that this creativity was recognised and celebrated. This class is now open for entries and we look forward to tasting them at the judging at the Ice Cream, and Artisan Foods Show, 2023 in Harrogate 7 to 9 February.”

The National Ice Cream Competition, the ‘Oscars’ of the ice cream competition world, has been running for over 75 years and entries are judged blind by experts, which for the Chefs Class will include celebrity chef Gennaro Contaldo and a representative of the Craft Guild of Chefs. The winner will receive significant consumer and trade media PR organised by the ICA, worth over £1,000.

“The Craft Guild of Chefs is delighted to be partnering with the Ice Cream Alliance to launch this latest competition category,” commented CEO Andrew Green. “We will be encouraging all our members to enter and believe the winners publicity prize will give that chefs reputation and the business they work in a significant boost.”

The competition is now open for entries. All entries must be prepared by the chef using the equipment they have in their professional kitchen; specialised ice cream equipment can be used if this is part of the kitchen equipment the chef already uses. Any flavour (both sweet and savoury) can be entered to demonstrate the skills and imagination of the individual chef (additions and toppings are acceptable). The product should be dairy based.

Full rules on ingredients, instructions on how to get product to the competition organisers and in what format and all other relevant information can be found at: www. ice-cream.org/the-national-ice-creamcompetition/ .

Judging will take place at the Ice Cream, and Artisan Foods Show, 2023 in Harrogate 7 to 9 February 2023.

For further information about the ICA, the National Ice Cream Competition and the new Chefs Class of the competition go to: www.ice-cream.org/the-national-icecream-competition/

Diary Dates

Business or pleasure, dates not to be missed...

1-31 January 2023

Veganuary

Veganuary is an annual challenge run by a UK nonprofit organisation that promotes and educates about veganism by encouraging people to follow a vegan lifestyle for the month of January.

19 February 2023

Innovations 2023

VA Whitley would like to invite you to Innovations 2023 the Premier Exhibition for the Fish & Chip trade in the North West of England and Wales. Bolton Stadium.

28 February 2023

National Fish & Chip Awards

The ceremony for the National Fish and Chip Awards 2023 will take place on the 28th of February 2023, at the Park Plaza in Westminster. Good Luck to all finalists.

5 March 2023

Fry It 2023

Friars Pride annual show returns to the Peterborough Showground in 2023. With lots of new ideas and fantastic stand holders it will be one of the industry events of the year.

6-12 March 2023

British Pie Week

Pie Week falls in the first week of March. Pies have been in existence since about 2000 B.C. and have been loved by the British since the 12th century.

26 March 2023

What’s Cooking

2023

What’s Cooking 2023 Henry Colbecks annual fish and chips exhibition for fish and chip shops, takeaways, fast food outlets, caterers, hospitality and more. Harrogate.

May 15 – 21 May 2023

National Vegetarian Week

National Vegetarian Week is run by the Vegetarian Society, a UK charity.

2nd June 2023

National Fish & Chip Day

Neoda’s National Fish & Chip Day is about giving fish and chips the recognition it deserves and helping to secure its position as the nation’s favourite dish.

3 – 9 July 2023

Great British Pea Week

Yes Peas! is continuing its mission to inspire everyone to cook and eat peas.

Keep up to date with trade events by visiting www.chippychat.co.uk and clicking on events. If you’re organising an event and would like to send us details so that we might mention it here and/or on the Chippy Chat website email your details to - austen@chippychat.co.uk

FRY I.T. 2023 is returning home to Peterborough!

Proudly brought to you by Friars Pride, our trade show FRY I.T. 2023 is returning to the East of England Arena for March 5th, 2023. With such breathtaking landmarks as the Peterborough Cathedral, we are elated to be able to invite you to join us in our return home to Peterborough.

What is FRY I.T.?

FRY I.T. is designed with fish friers, takeaway, restaurant and café proprietors and caterers in mind, and this year promises to be the best show yet! Going from strength to strength over the past decades; the trade show offers you the opportunity to meet manufacturers and suppliers to the industry, taste test products before you buy and get yourself up to date with the latest products, developments, and information in the trade.

What You Can Expect

Our previous FRY I.T. trade show boasted an impressive number of returning and new suppliers with over 70 stands. Anything a fish and chip shop could want, was all there in one place – we had FAS fish, frozen goods and sauces, packaging, drinks and even frying ranges and Epos systems.

Alongside some incredible exhibitors at FRY I.T. 2022, such as Rammi, PanaEpos, Pukka Pies, VITO UK, Middleton Foods and Kerry Foodservice, we had the likes of Fry Magazine and Chippy Chat from trade media who brought prestige to the event, while NEODA shared information about National Fish and Chip Day – a hallmark occasion of our wonderful industry. Brian and Giovanna Banwell also provided great entertainment and joy to the children that went to the show with their balloons.

Friars Pride was founded on the core tenant that we are a family company, with you all as beloved members and it was so wonderful to finally be reunited with you all face to face.

FRY I.T. 2023 promises to see just as many returning exhibitors and many new faces to show off the latest innovations in the trade.

More Than Just an Exhibition

FRY I.T. never fails to impress, and 2023 will be no exception. We will have incredibly informative sales representatives dotted across the hall ready and happily willing to answer any of your queries and questions about the products and deals on display.

The Drywite equipment shop will also make its much-anticipated return. The shop, which allows people to buy equipment and items on the day will be a popular attraction on the show floor with many shops getting their hands on new items and pieces of equipment that’ll most definitely level up their businesses, so make sure to check it out!

Everyone in the Industry Coming Together!

The show is perfect if you are the owner, manager, or employee of a takeaway, fish and chip shop or any other catering business! Don’t miss out; get your free tickets today and make the most of the exclusive promotions, innovations and information that will be available at the show.

All you need to do to register for your tickets is to head to the Friars Pride website and go to the FRY I.T. tab at the top of the page. Alternatively, you can register by searching “FRY I.T. 2023” on Eventbrite or by following any of the links on FRY I.T. 2023 social media posts on any of the Friars Pride social pages.

We can’t wait to see you at the East of England Arena, Peterborough, for FRY I.T. 2023!

Contact Friars Pride

If you require any help with registering for your tickets or if you have any queries, please feel free to contact us. You can email marketing@friarspride.com or contact your Telesales Agent or Area Sales Manager.

Match Of The Day!

Football and pies go hand-in-hand, and with key international matches falling during prime pie eating season this winter, there’s never been a better time to take advantage of a unique opportunity to bag bumper pie sales with Pukka.

In Britain, food is at the heart of celebrations big and small, and sport is no exception. This means as we gear-up to cheer on our national football teams from the 20th November, fish & chip shops should start preparing now to make the most of the sales rush. Pukka’s Managing Director, Isaac Fisher, has highlighted “an extraordinary sales opportunity this year, as some of the most-watched and highly-anticipated football games are happening in the winter months – AKA prime pie eating season.“While we know our pies are enjoyed all year round, there is a particular preference for them during the colder months. In fact, pie sales increased +14% during autumn / winter last year . And when you also consider that during the international matches of summer 2021, sales spiked +25% , there is no better time to get prepped for a huge influx of customers.”

Fish & chip shops have been Pukka’s heartland ever since it baked its first pie in 1963. Therefore, the brand is arming chippy owners with the tools they need to make the most of this unique opportunity. Fisher explains: “Firstly, offering a complete line-up of pies is

vital, so that you have something for everyone. Utilise a combination of our classic recipes, alongside our pitch-side favourite Chicken Balti. You can expand appeal even further by stocking-up on vegetarian and vegan-friendly options.”

To further boost sales, fish & chip shops should consider click & collect and home delivery services – to give their customers an easy way to order their pie & chips meal pre-game, post-game or during halftime.

Fisher adds: “It’s also important to shout about the services you offer on social media, which can directly impact sales. In fact, we ran a campaign during lockdown where we offered chip shops geotargeted social media posts to advertise the services they have available – which resulted in a +32% increase in pie sales during the week the social ads were live .

“Finally, visit our foodservice website to download resources like our Heat & Serve Guide, Social Media Toolkit and bespoke POS – which will help you to drive engagement and generate sales growth even further this winter.”

Photo Ben Weber Unsplash

We are all hoping for a better 2023 already! Enclosed with this edition of Chippy Chat we are giving you ALL a FREE 2023YEAR PLANNER. It is the perfect way of keeping tabs on deliveries, staff rotas and holidays and even writing down the key dates for your business over the coming 12 months, like National Fish & Chip Day, Pie Week and of course the Isle of Ely Produce Open Day.

We will soon be working on the year planner for 2024, so if you are a supplier to the trade and would like all year-round advertising, please email austen@ chippychat.co.uk!

The Class of ’88

By the late 1980’s the British public’s food tastes had become cosmopolitan with considerable growth in Indian and Chinese takeaway’s and gourmet food ranges in supermarkets. Nevertheless Fish and Chips still remained the Nation’s favourite takeaway with the Class of ‘88 numbering around 15,000 shops. They were attracting a more diverse range of customers who were paying around £1.60 - £2.00 for medium cod and chips. Greaseproof paper was introduced and newspaper for wrapping phased out on hygiene grounds. A BSE outbreak also resulted in many shops switching from animal fats to vegetable oils for frying. By 1988, Frymax was still the number one brand. It was exactly the same product as on launch with no additions or modifications and remained pure white palm which is additive free, contains no hydrogenated oil and less than 1% trans fats. Frymax guaranteed consistently good results and long lasting performance without deterioration in quality and had become firmly established as the Fryers Favourite.

Frymax – In a Class of its Own

For information, advice,

material please contact ADM Trading (UK) Limited. e-mail: frymaxinfo@adm.com www.frymax.co.uk

Who will takeaway the top prize?

Top

The National Fish and Chip Awards has named the top 20 finalists for its Takeaway of the Year category. Announced after hundreds of applications, fish and chip shops from across the country have been shortlisted from the Top 40, to the final Top 20. The Takeaway of the Year category is sponsored by Pukka Pies, McWhinneys, Smales, VA Whitley, Friars Pride, Henry Colbecks and B D Signs.

The top 20 businesses shortlisted are:

Fish Kitchen 1854

Newington Fish Bar Belmont Bay Fish Bar Sea and Earth

Whiteheads Fish and Chips Ltd

Chips @ No.8

Olley’s Fish Experience Ship Deck

Fisherman’s Bay

The Bearded Sailor

The Fish Bank

Low’s Traditional Fish & Chip Shop

French’s Fish Shop

The Oyster Shell

Pier Point Fish & Chips

Henley’s of Wivenhoe

Lewis’s Fish and Grill

Mike’s Traditional Fish & Chips

Auckley Friery

The Fish Works

Commenting on the news, Andrew Crook, President at the NFFF, comments “We received such a high standard of applications this year, for this category in particular, making it a very difficult yet rewarding judging process! The top 20 really demonstrate a strong commitment to the fish and chip industry and to the British public, so we’re thrilled to see so many shortlisted from across the country. Congratulations to everyone involved, this is a massive achievement in itself!”

The National Fish & Chip Awards are hosted by The National Federation of Fish Friers.

(NFFF), on the 28th of February 2023 at the Park Plaza Westminster Bridge. Seafood from Norway are the overall sponsor of the awards.

For further information on the National Fish and Chip Awards 2023, please visit: www.thefishandchipawards.com

Good Luck to all of the Top 20 from all at Chippy Chat!

The National Fish and Chip Awards is the largest UK-wide event dedicated to raising standards across the industry whilst supporting fish and chip related businesses. For more than 30 years, the awards have celebrated the nation’s favourite dish, while championing the eclectic eateries that hold up this loved British tradition. The National Federation of Fish Friers will host the inaugural awards in February 2023.

Splitting on the Rock & the Bay!

Fish and Chip duo share MSC UK Foodservice Champion of the Year at Seafood Awards

Chef Mitch Tonks’ Devon restaurant chain Rockfish and Scottish fish and chip shop The Bay with Calum Richardson at the helm have won joint MSC UK Foodservice Champion of the Year at the MSC UK annual awards.

Fish and Chips at Weston Grove, in Chester, won MSC UK Social Media Hero of the Year for the personal and creative nature of their social media content.

For the first time the awards, which took place on October 20, 2022, and were sponsored by Seafood Scotland, were held in Scotland, at the Aberdeen Maritime Museum, in recognition of the region’s importance for sustainable fishing and the city’s strong links to the fishing industry.

The winner of MSC UK Fresh Fish Foodservice Supplier of the Year was Direct Seafoods while Brakes and M&J took home MSC UK Foodservice Wholesaler of the Year.

This year’s award was handmade by eco homeware company Rawr Home from crushed mussel and scallop shells from the MSC certified fisheries in Shetland which have featured in MSC’s recent Sustainable Seafood Week campaigns.

Accepting his award, Calum Richardson, owner of The Bay, in Stonehaven, Scotland, said: “It’s a great honour for myself and all of Team Bay to be awarded MSC foodservice champion of the year. “We were the first fish and chip shop in the world to put MSC Scottish haddock

on the menu many years ago. We continue to support our industry and the Scottish fishing fleet in protecting fish for the future.”

Mitch said: “Our ambition at Rockfish is to promote the enjoyment of eating sustainable seafood and working with the MSC is part of that. Three years ago, we made a commitment to ensure that our menus consisted of only MSC certified seafood or locally caught species, where we know the details of the fishery and the boats that are catching the fish we cook. To be recognised by the MSC for this work is appreciated and hugely valued by everyone at Rockfish.”

Loren Hiller, MSC UK & Ireland Commercial Manager, said: “Both Rockfish and The Bay put sustainability at their heart of their businesses, and they are equally passionate about locally sourced fresh fish.

“It is fantastic to have two incredibly worthy winners of our Foodservice Champion award, two businesses who have been absolute pioneers in bringing sustainable seafood to UK foodservice customers.

“And congratulations to Weston Grove who have put huge effort in supporting Sustainable Seafood Week. They continue to highlight the MSC blue ecolabel throughout the year in their content.”

Nominations were judged by an expert panel made up of chef CJ Jackson, formerly of the Billingsgate Seafood School, Marcus Coleman chief executive of Seafish, Dr Eleanor Adamson, Fisheries Programme Manager at the Fishmongers’ Company and Dr Bryce Stewart from the University of York.

The Range That Packs a Punch!

British designed and built frying ranges

Fryline are a frying range manufacturer born from a wealth of experience in the industry from both a frying range engineering and also experience of owning and operating fish and chip shops, giving us a unique industry hands on perspective.

High Efficiency – Much Needed with today’s energy prices!

We have developed a unique burner and heat exchange system which offers some of the most highly efficient Frying Ranges available. CE certified at over 90% efficiency, our ranges are able to save you significant amounts on your gas bill.

We have just completed another range install this time in Crawley Prizefighter Fish & Chips, Crawley Fryline have recently installed a new Fryline 4 pan Alpha high efficiency range with triple stage oil filtration and in-built burger griddle extraction for Dal at Prizefighters fish and chips, Crawley. Dal Singh has recently purchased the shop and wasted no time in increasing the sales and quality, he soon realised the existing range was not keeping up and chose to replace with a new Fryline range, which was quickly manufactured and installed for him within 6 weeks.

He chose to add a burger griddle extraction and went with triple stage oil filtration to ensure his oil is in top quality condition at all times, he is also keen to have a go with basket frying.

With the Fryline pans they are all universal and customers have the choice to traditional free frying or basket frying and can rotate pans between chips and fish. All Fryline ranges come with a 7 year warranty which gave Dal total peace of mind. This 4-pan range has set the business up for future expansion and we are sure it will be a ‘Knock Out’

Dal is very happy with his new range. Having had many other ranges over the years we asked what made him choose a Fryline?

“I loved that it was British made. KLS have also been good with their servicing, (especially Rob), so when he told me about Fryline Ranges I was immediately interested. I have rebranded the shop and the range not only looks fantastic it is very easy to use. They also answer my calls, & the range is very efficient including its recovery time important with rising energy bills. Now I’ve had this from Fryline I wonder why I didn’t have one installed before.”

If a shop owner would like to see Dal’s range in action, please contact Fryline and he will only be too happy to show it to anyone around his shop. Dal added: “The list of reasons to buy a Fryline is endless plus price wise it was cheaper than many other options open to me too.”

We would also welcome any customers to come and see first-hand and try a Fryline range in our showroom to see the quality and performance for themselves.

Call fryline on 01553 772935 www.fryline.co.uk

The Brothers Grim

New fish and chip shop Three Brothers Chip Shop hit by rising prices

Anew fish and chip shop which opened in Hessle, much to the delight of locals has been hit like everyone else with unexpected price rises.

Run by (you guessed it) three brothers, the new chippy prides itself on freshly made, delicious food and delivering service with a smile. With people queuing out the door, it was clear to see that the chippy had made a great first impression with the locals.

Three Brothers Fish and Chips opened on Thursday, March 31 and offered customers 50% off their food to celebrate the grand opening.

The cost-of-living crisis has affected everyone in recent weeks, and independent businesses are no different. Along with soaring energy bills, inflation rose to 10% recently, sending prices even higher.

The price hikes have put local businesses in a difficult situation, with many being forced to raise their prices in order to survive. The challenge is even harder for newly formed businesses who are trying to establish themselves amidst the costof-living crisis.

Speaking to Hull Live, Three Brothers’ owner Ozi said: “It’s a nightmare, to be honest. The rent has gone up and everything is getting more and more expensive.

“Since we opened, the price of fish has gone up twice. But it’s the same with everything - the cardboard boxes, the paper napkins, and cans of pop - it’s all gone up.

Owner Ozi remains optimistic about the future

“The oil that we fry in is a lot more expensive at the moment because of what’s going on in Russia and Ukraine. It’s gone from £15 a bottle to over £19.

“It’s even harder for us because we are a new business trying to establish ourselves. In a few months, we will probably have to put our prices up to survive.

“We’re coping at the moment, but if the rates get much higher then we could be in real trouble. But, I love what I do and you won’t get me out of here easily.

“I’ve waited three or four years to open a fish and chip shop in this area, and now that it’s open we couldn’t be happier. We already have a lot of regulars and the people of Hessle have been absolutely fantastic, so we’re feeling optimistic about the future.

“I’d like to thank you all for being so welcoming and we’d love to see you all down here. If anyone is after some fresh fish and chips, then head down to Prestongate and pay us a visit!”

While nobody can avoid the cost-ofliving crisis entirely, shopping locally and supporting independent businesses and takeaways can help to relieve some of the strain on local people.

Are you struggling with price rises?

Email austen@chippychat.co.uk

Trade Show for Fish & Chip, Takeaway and Food Service Professionals

DON'T MISS OUT ON...

Norway. A whitefish nation and proud partner for British fish & chips

Arecent B2B networking reception at the Norwegian Ambassador’s residence in London marked the welcome arrival of Norwegian Seafood Council’s new UK envoy, Victoria Braathen.

Victoria is now taking the helm to move forward new initiatives to support the fish and chip industry in the current economic turbulence.

The event was attended by key industry people including Chippy Chat Editor Austen Dack, and NFFF President and Vice President Andrew Crook and Caroline Murphy as well as suppliers such as TQ & Smales.

Said Victoria: “Over the years, the Norwegian Seafood Council has held a close relationship with the UK fish and chip industry. Together with our extended market team, I’m honoured to build on these great foundations and work together to further strengthen the seafood partnership between Norway and the UK through great British fish and chips.

“Despite rising costs across many sectors, it’s now more important than ever to keep communicating with consumers on the benefits of choosing sustainable seafood. The more we can tell customers about where their fish is from, and the effort that goes into making sure it’s as sustainable as it can be, the greater chance we have of getting UK consumers to understand the incredible value they are getting from a portion of quality fish and chips.”

Continued Victoria: “Sustainability is of paramount importance to us and is vital to ensuring the industry survives. Both trade and customers alike play a vital role in safeguarding the future of fish. Whilst we’re seeing an increase in public awareness around sustainability, it’s imperative we work with operators to offer sustainable options and educate consumers on the importance of provenance and choosing sustainable species”.

Brits have a particular love of cod and haddock: the UK is the largest market in the world for these species. Norwegian seas are home to one of the largest cod stocks in the world, the Northeast Arctic cod – and by quick-freezing at sea, customers can enjoy the taste, texture and nutritional benefits of Norway’s world-famous cod year-round.

Norway leads in its sustainable fishing practices. From pioneering stock management to diverse fishing fleets, everything it does has sustainability at its heart. Adhering to strict regulations, responsible stewardship underpins fishing process, along with constant assessment of quotas to maintain healthy fish stocks and ensure they are never over-fished.

As a key part of its export business, Norway works hard to ensure that British suppliers get stable deliveries of cod and haddock, while also reassuring them and their customers that the fish they receive is traceable, sustainable and of the very best quality. When choosing to sell Seafood from Norway cod and haddock, fish and chip shops are providing delicious protein from a country that takes great pride in its fishing methods and rich heritage, delivering quality and sustainability credentials.

Help customers make sustainable choices with Seafood from Norway

Running for 33 years, Save + Select is the industry’s longest established customer loyalty scheme, where points really do add up and every point is a step closer to a huge range of rewards.

With many products earning Save + Select points at the point of purchase, and enhanced point promotions running throughout the year, even just 250 Save + Select points equates to £10.00 worth of rewards, and there are so many rewards to choose from!

Customers can select either Love2Shop, Amazon or Sainsbury’s gift cards or Love2Shop e-Gift codes, where the rewards can be redeemed at over 20,000 locations.

The gift cards are accepted in restaurants, across the travel and hospitality sectors and at many attractions. They can be used to buy experiences or spent on practical purchases at Sainsbury’s supermarkets and at Sainsbury’s fuel stations.

Love to shop?

Love2Shop is the UK’s leading multi-retailer gift provider, bringing the high street to the doorstep with access to 1,000’s of the UK’s

Want to browse Love2Shop rewards?

Check them out here:

E-Gift Cards: love2shop.co.uk/COMMON/ pdfs/love2shop-e-gift-cards-where-tospend.pdf

Gift Cards: appreciate.co.uk/where-tospend-love2shop-gift-cards/

In recognition of customers’ business needs, the scheme also offers the option to redeem their points to spend with the Q partnership partners, where these can be used to buy all manner of goods, from everyday staples to new equipment.

The scheme offers further flexibility by allowing customers to split the rewards they have earned, meaning these can be given to staff to reward them too!

Henry Colbeck’s Marketing Manager Louise Bebbington commented; “Save + Select is designed to reward our customers for their business and their loyalty. Typically, many of our customers collect points throughout the year and redeem them to help towards things like Christmas shopping. It gives them some great rewards to choose from, helping them to make Christmas as special as possible for themselves and their staff, particularly pertinent after the tough year we have all had in 2022. On behalf of the Q Partnership, I’d like to wish all our customers a very Merry Christmas and a prosperous 2023 – from our families to yours!”

NORTH POLE

Lip licking chicken needs lip licking ingredients

imitated, never surpassed. Quality Ingredients guaranteed.

It’s no accident that Southern Fried Chicken ingredients are sought after up and down the country. Our uncompromising demand for the best ingredients, our exclusive lemon pepper and constant attention to our customers’ needs make Southern Fried Ingredients popular with both restaurants and consumers.

Whether it’s grilled or fried chicken we have the right taste for you.

Our journey started way back in the ‘70s when Arthur, our founder, discovered something wonderful. Southern Fried Chicken. On a family holiday in the Mississippi, he ordered a plate of the local delicacy, Fried Chicken, and fell in love. He was determined to bring his discovery back to the UK, and the rest is history.

Southern Fried Breading in our iconic red and yellow sacks, great by itself or add lemon pepper from our 1.6Kg foil pack. Gives life a little zing.

Or use our convenient premixed Premier breading, with just the right amount of lemon pepper already added. Simplicity itself. available in 4Kg bags or 20Kg case

Pre-dip in But Mil dip, improves adhesion, keeping more of the delicious breading on the chicken.

Want something a bit spicier? Then Hot and Flakey is right for you. Great on wings, strips, fillets, delicious in burgers for you customers who like it hot. A spicy flavour and a crunchy texture.

Since then, our range has grown, not just fried chicken but grilled chicken too. The holiday favourite from Portugal, Piri Piri chicken. A deliciously spicy Piri Piri marinade with the great fiery flavour of piri piri peppers, five basting sauces and five finishing sauces, all available in convenient-sized packs. From mild to wild, we have it covered.

Contact our sales team on 01189441100 or sales@fast-food-systems.co.uk or check your local cash and carry.

Arthur’s company teamed up with some of the biggest ingredients suppliers globally and that close relationship still exists today, guaranteeing quality and consistency across all our ingredients range.

Often

As simple as One, Two, Kee…

Keejays Ltd, which has been making speciality sauces and pastes for professional and home kitchens since 1985, is launching a brand new sauce concentrate to its Goldfish Brand Professional range for 2022; Portuguese Style Piquant Piri Piri in 4.5kg foodservice packaging. An innovative, highly cost effective, complete, multi-functional sauce concentrate mix for professional cooks in foodservice to re-create this popular Portuguese Style Piquant Sauce.

Goldfish Brand curry sauce concentrates have been a favourite amongst curryloving Brits for over 35 years –this brandnew sauce uses the same principle as their signature range, our new Piri Piri comes as a concentrated roux that just requires water and heat to bring the flavours to life. It’s as simple as one, two, three!

for pouring or ambient as a condiment or even as a marinade. It is ideal for making in advance, portioned and kept chilled, ready for when service begins. When marinading use straight from the tub, coat the meat and leave for a couple of hours before cooking for that intense Piri Piri flavour. Ideal for that “flame grilled” flavour profile we all know and love.

This professional cook’s essential to prepare Piri Piri Piri chicken guarantees time saving convenience and outstanding cost saving in catering kitchens, without compromise to the highest quality. One product to make multi dishes – hot sauce, condiment or marinade. The perfect replication of the most popular Piri Piri flavour profile in the UK.

Sammy Lee, CEO and Owner of Keejays Ltd, said: “We love sauces – and it’s a good job too, as we have been making them since my father, Mr Kee Wah Lee, founded Keejays in 1985. Since then, we have continued to grow and expand our collection in line with people’s developing – and increasingly explorational – tastes. The launch of our new sauce –Piri Piri Portuguese Style Piquant Sauce Concentrate – is the next step in our hopefully long journey.

The team here at Keejays has worked hard to create innovative, restaurantquality and, most importantly, delicious products. We’re incredibly proud of our new creation and we can’t wait for our loyal Goldfish Brand fans and new cooks to try them.”

How to make your Goldfish Brand Sauce:

1. Measure one part Piri Pirisauce concentrate to three parts water (add or subtract water if you like your sauce a little runnier or thicker).

Goldfish Brand Piri Piri Sauce ventures outside of the brand’s classic Chinese roots. Originating from Southern Africa, this Piri Piri sauce is packed full of flavour; the earthy sauce has everything from hints of fresh citrusy lemon, heat from red chilli, smoked paprika, onion and garlic, and a touch of spearmint for freshness. All layered on top of a rich tomato base. Perfect on chicken, halloumi, roasted veg and so much more.

The sauce, once made, can be served hot

2. Add to a saucepan, heat and whisk.

3. Enjoy your deliciously smooth and velvety sauce! Top Tip: Make sure you use a dry, clean spoon every time you take a scoop from your pot. Store in the cupboard once open for up to six months (although we can almost guarantee once you open your new sauce it’ll be long gone before then…!)

The full range of Keejays Ltd sauces can be found at www.keejayssauces.co.uk.

Keejays Launches New Goldfish Brand Professional Sauce for Foodservice

Aye Aye Skippers!

By Terry Jones UK Sales Manager, Meijer Potato

Meijer Potato UK were again delighted to attend the annual Isle of Ely Produce Open Day, where fish and chip shop owners and suppliers met to discuss all things related to the trade. There were some interesting presentations from a number of shops who have sought to develop their offer in order to increase business and also maintain a working margin in these challenging times. We also heard from both the ware and seed trade, and the same pressures are being applied in terms of growing and crop storage costs. Some challenging times but there are always opportunities for those who seek to innovate!

Meijer Potato had several varieties on display, some of which are already available in the trade, but also some newer varieties for the coming years. Our Dutch breeding station is constantly searching for varieties that can give better results for growers and producers. Using less chemicals, fertilizer and water can help offset the steep price rises that we are all facing. Lady Jane is an example – a robust plant with good resistance to pests and diseases. In addition, it is reliable in store, so it fries well - and tastes great. Sustainable potatoes with top eating quality - it’s certainly a name to watch for in the future!

We also had some 25kg bags of Lady Terra ware to give away and many shops took some away to test and we were grateful to receive feedback from a number of them – it’s vital to know if

our variety is producing a good chip. A sample photo sent by Andrew Crook at Skippers of Euxton in Lancashire looked superb, and we know Lady Terra is already on the radar of a number of shops in the north-west due to the quality of the local samples in the area. We also heard from George Morey of the award-winning Knight’s Fish and Chips of Glastonbury, Somerset. He thought the sample he used was of a decent size – but would prefer a little bolder – probably something we will see a lot of this season due to the growing conditions. They rumbled well to be clean with a minute, and apart from the odd green spot he thought the level of waste was minimal. Overall, they gave a good fry quality – the chip held well in the box and remained crisp.

Many thanks to Austen, John and Oliver for having us at the event, it’s great to have such strong contact with chip shops and we look forward to seeing many of you at the next event!

We are passionate about potatoes and their potential

For decades Meijer Potato has been breeding only the best varieties to suit the demands of the market.

We focus on ensuring reliable fry appearance, texture and flavour to give you a premium product. Helping you to deliver the perfect chip that both looks and tastes great!

Everybody deserves to enjoy food.

We are Meijer Potato

Accord Early favourite, white fries and that fresh new season taste

Bayfield Brecks Barns, Garden Lane Letheringsett, Holt, Norfolk, NR25 7DZ Tel: 01263 710602

Lady Anna Great taste, less waste, premium fries

Lady Terra

A whiter fry with dry matter to extend that new season feeling

info@meijerpotato.co.uk www.meijerpotato.co.uk

Who will be our Mr or

Top

10 shortlist announced for The National Fish & Chip Awards’ Field to Frier Awards

The National Fish and Chip Awards has named the top 10 finalists for its Field to Frier category. The Field to Frier category is sponsored by Isle of Ely Produce, who are responsible for supplying over 2 million bags of potatoes into the fish and chip industry every year. They have been joined this year as an award partner by the Agrico variety Babylon. Babylon is a relatively new variety that has been trialled at fish and chip shops across the UK with great success over the last two years.

Alex Moore Sales Manager for Agrico said: “We have been working with Isle of Ely and Chippy Chat to champion best practice in regard to new varieties. Babylon is one variety which has already tested well in chippy’s across the UK. We are thrilled to be a co-sponsor of the Field to Frier Award at the 2023 National Fish & Chip Awards and wish all of the ten listed shops the best of luck. We also look forward to working with the shops and sending them some Babylon to trial.”

Commenting on the news, Andrew Crook, President at the NFFF, comments “We received such a high standard of applications this year, many have come from their attendance at the annual Isle of Ely Open Day where they learn so much about how to choose, store and fry potatoes so we’re thrilled to see so many shortlisted from across the country. Congratulations & good luck to everyone involved!”

Isle of Ely Director Oliver Boutwood said: “This award is crucial for us to help educate shops on the basics of how to get the most from their potato supplies. Knowing about which varieties suit them best (this changes by geographic area), how to store and treat the potatoes and also making the best chips from what is available at every given time will help us

Mrs Potato Head?

all to serve great chips every time.”

The National Fish & Chip Awards are hosted by The National Federation of Fish Friers (NFFF), on the 28th of February 2023 at the Park Plaza Westminster Bridge. Seafood from Norway are the overall sponsor of the awards

For further information on the National Fish and Chip Awards 2023, please visit: www.thefishandchipawards.com

About the Awards

The National Fish and Chip Awards is the largest UK-wide event dedicated to raising standards across the industry whilst supporting fish and chip related businesses.

For more than 30 years, the awards have celebrated the nation’s favourite dish, while championing the eclectic eateries that hold up this loved British tradition. www.isleofely.co.uk

Hamburg & Chips!

By Austen Dack

There are some cities in Europe where you have no need to leave the city centre or old town. Hamburg is not one of those cities. The layout of the city means that to see the sights you need to move around. But the major sights aren’t the only reason to explore the different districts of Hamburg. The look and feel of each district can be quite different from the last, making each neighbourhood fresh and interesting. With three full days to explore we (myself, Sarah, Sammy, Evy,Kirsty & Platinum Dan cut our expedition into three with a plethora of drinking holes and fine restaurants to stop in along our route.

Hafencity

Today, the single-most prominent site in HafenCity Hamburg is also the city’s new landmark: Built on the foundations of an old storehouse, the Elbphilharmonie Hamburg has come to define the city’s skyline. In the evening we visited the Blick Bar (within the Elbphilharmonie). It offers an unrestricted view over the Elbe, allowing guests to observe the endless comings and goings of the ships. Later we checked out the Michelin listed restaurant Strauchs Falco. Amazingly we got in without a reservation and was looked after by Uwe Bergmann for the evening. I went for the local favourite Viennese schnitzel made from veal tenderloin with cranberries, creamy cucumber salad, and mashed potatoes.

Our base for our stay was in Hafencity itself. The Hafencity 25 Hours Hotel.

The rooms were stylish and quirky with a

maritime theme, with modern amenities you would expect from a design hotel. With a pin ball machine and music room plus a top floor sauna the 25 had many things to do in between those trips out. The breakfast buffet served daily at 25hours was a smorgasbord of delights to set you up for the day.

City Tour

Book through Robin & the Tour Guides (ask for Savvy). Witness the rise and fall of Hamburg throughout its history: its glorious past as the centre of the Hanseatic League and its heavy destruction in the Great Fire and World War 2. Visit the impressive town hall, the main important churches of the city, WWII Memorial of St. Nikolai - the old landmark of the city and the best viewpoint: St. Michael’s Church. In the city itself you will find fish and chips at the lovely Ahoi restaurant (chips were very tasty). We also had to try too currywurst from a street vendor.

Elbe Tunnel & River

The Elbe tunnel is a Must-See for every person who visits Hamburg. This 426.5-meterlong tunnel was finished in 1911. Since 2003, the tunnel has been declared a protected monument. The tunnel is 24 under the ground. Great views from the other side too.

Philipps Restaurant – Little Fish & Chips!

Hidden away in a side street, Philipps is a great place to eat. Walk down the few stairs to this friendly little restaurant with low ceilings, a relaxed atmosphere and international

We investigate Germany’s second city in search for some fish & chips

menu. It promised flavoursome and skilfully prepared dishes and boy did they deliver. The competent staff reflected the style and character of this eatery. Knowing of my fish and chip connection Philipp had asked chef Sebastian Forschner to create a ‘chippy meal’ as a Maus bouche. This was without doubt the tastiest interpretation I have tried on all of my European jaunts.

Here are the ingredients

Fish - Fin of Tourbot

For the Batter - 1/4 cup rice flour,2 cup flour,1 TS baking soda,1/4 cup corn-starch,3/4 TS Salt,1 Tsp cayenne pepper, parsley/ lemon zest/ mustard powder, mixed with soda water and ice cubes.

Served with homemade remoulade, homemade potato salad. Other courses available included Braised Ox Cheeks Potato-Leek Mash, Tartar of Canadian Black Angus Beef Fillet Fried capers, and the Crepinette of Pigeon & Poulard Breast Blackberry with Beet Root Mashed potatoes.

The other restaurant of note particularly for our UK potato growers and merchants is the Kartoffel Kellar. Every dish involves the use of potatoes including the pancakes on the dessert menu.

The other reason for our trip was to see two fine UK bands both on a tour of Europe. On the Friday evening The Godfathers led by Scottish based Pete Coyne and on the Sunday The Cure.

The God Fathers did not let up for one second during the first three songs, in fact they kept the pressure on for the full set of some 20 songs at the city’s Monkey Music Bar. Pete delivered a mix of old and new; OCD and She Gives me Love my favourites

In front of over 13,000 fans in the Barclays Arena, The Cure with legendary frontman Robert Smith performed for over 2½ hours. He has retained the look of a 3-year-old who has just found their mum’s makeup bag, despite his senior years. An incredible 27 song setlist including two new songs and a host of hits spanning over 40 years. It’s almost as though we were floating in space with the band, detached from reality…….

www.philipps-restaurant.de www.25hours-hotels.com/en/ hotels/hamburg/hafencity www.falco-hamburg.de

Posh Space!

Seafood restaurant, offering ‘posh’ fish and chips, opened near Glasgow

Anew seafood restaurant, which offers its own unique take on ‘posh’ fish and chips, has opened near Glasgow.

Thousands of diners have already visited the 30-seater restaurant, which boasts an extensive dine in and take away menu, packed with locally sourced fresh seafood dishes and the usual fish and chip shop favourites.

There is a distinctly nautical feel to the impressive interior of the two-level Bearsden restaurant which features traditional dark wood panelling and brass fittings set against a deep blue colour scheme which offers a ‘refined family dining experience unlike anything in the

surrounding area’.

A big hook for families is the inspiration for the restaurant – The Scallop’s Tale, a wall mounted story charting Sally the Scallop’s journey which diners can read as they enjoy the experience. A famous Earnest Hemingway quotation also takes pride of place which is certain to catch the eye of diners.

Bookings are a must up as foodies and families alike are queuing up to enjoy signature dishes such as Pan-Fried King Scallops with Parmesan Mash, ‘Posh Fish and Chips, and Breaded Lemon Sole with a Minted Pea Puree, Fries and Hot Tartar Sauce’.

The speciality ‘Scallops High Tea for

two’, which includes two ‘Posh Fish and Chips’, Sourdough Bread, and Tea with Cakes and Scones has attracted diners for sharing and socialising.

There is also a selection of nonseafood dishes, as well as vegetarian and vegan options, and smaller portions for children.

The Scallop’s Tale Fish & Chip takeaway menu features all the classic dishes customers expect. The menus have been devised by executive chef Stephen Pohler, who has built an impressive CV including spells at the Lisini Dalziel Park Hotel, the Hilton Garden Inn, Crowne Plaza and the Radisson Red, in Glasgow.

Scallop’s Tale owner Dr Usman Qureshi, a Bearsden local, said: “It’s a real thrill to open The Scallop’s Tale. This restaurant has been a long time in the making and we’re so excited to be able to share it with the public.

“Since we announced the restaurant was opening recently a day hasn’t gone by where somebody hasn’t

asked how it’s looking, and now we are open for all to see.

Families can come out and enjoy a delicious seafood meal, or they can take away to enjoy in the comfort of their home.”

Have you opened a new restaurant? Email austen@chippychat.co.uk

FREE Chippy Industry

Isle of Ely Produce and Chippy Chat are once again opening their doors to chip shop owners and managers on Sunday September 10th 2023!

It is one of the FREE industry events of the year. The event starts at 9.30 am at our farm in Ely, Cambridgeshire with a coffee and a chance to talk to industry colleagues. It is invaluable, not only do chip shop owners and staff find out first-hand how the potato crop is faring for 2023/24, but they also get an idea about predicted cost and quality of the crop for the year ahead.

Add to that lots of key suppliers will be sponsoring/ attending on the day. In 2022 they included Pukka Pies, Middleton Foods, Premier 1 Filtration, TQuality, Drywite, Friars Pride, Preoday (Qikserve), Agrico, McWhinney, Seafood from Norway, BD Signs, Meijer Potato UK, Panaepos, Smales, PJ Lee & Sons, HZPC, JFK, Farm Electronics, Blakemans, Frymax & more.

You will watch presentations

on our giant AV, with full staging, from award winning fish and chip shop owners, giving you valuable advice for your shop. Guest speakers for our 2022 event included NFFF President Andrew Crook, Sarah Heward from the Real Food Café, Kaylee Frost from Harlees Fish & Chips, Nick and David MIller from Millers, Josette Foster from Fish and Chips at Weston Grove plus more.

Please email austen@ chippychat.co.uk if you would like to be a sponsor and/or exhibit on the day.

We will also have Oliver Boutwood back with his Q&A sessions, plus the chance for you to try Babylon, a new chipping variety from Agrico, and lots of samples and freebies too. It’s the FREE industry event not to miss! The event is suitable for all levels of management and also young friers too. Maximum of 3 tickets per shop. FREE refreshments will also be served.

Order your tickets at www. eventbrite.co.uk, and search for Isle of Ely Produce

In 2022 over 50 people stayed in Ely too for an evening meal and drinks. A chance for you all to sit and relax with industry peers. Please let us know if you intend to stay email austen@chippychat.co.uk, and we will add you to the list for the restaurant and send you hotel choices (if staying).