Chippy Chat - November 2020

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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

austen@chippychat.co.uk

TEL 01353 865 966

Issue 11 Volume 10 November 2020

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Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • November 2020

New Spuds Tested

Miami NICE!

Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • November 2020

Order In...

and hit the road

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Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • November 2020

Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • November 2020

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The Year March-es On!

Plan your year ahead!we have our great sausage feature Well already approaching the

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end ollins of theSeafood first quarter of 2018! are once again

Hopefully it will partner be a busy our premier for one this for

Austen Dack Publishing Editor

Austen Dack Publishing Editor

shops and issue. suppliers as weat approach November Everyone Chippy Mother’s day and Easter too.

Chat thanks them for their support in Congratulations to all at Friars 2020, and wishes them well in 2021.

Pride. Once again, they have Unfortunately, the Chippy Chat delivered a fantastic trade show ball for 2020 has been cancelled but with even more visitors it seemed the good news is the next ball is on than ever.

Sunday December 5th 2021. We have A busy offering this month for your lots of opportunities for companies delights. First off we review many to the fat evening and get of sponsor our oil and suppliers giving involved too. you the chance to see what many

too!

Enclosed this month we have

Our front-page partner March given you all a FREE year for planner to is Pukka Pies. supply millions put up in yourThey shops.

Sponsored byof pies to fish and chip shops across Sarson’s and backed by many of our the UK and they are helping us partners, it gives you the first chance celebrate National Pie Week. to look ahead to 2021 and hopefully If you would like to advertise, something near normality. Keep in get involved or tell us some touch as usual austen@chippychat. news please email me austen@ co.uk chippychat.co.uk – thanks for your Austen support enjoy the issue.

Austen

Our website is www.chippychat.co.uk

top shops are using and why. Also, Chippy Chat Ltd

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 • November 2020 Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • March 2018

Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • November 2020 Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • March 2018

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Half Time!

Banbury area fish and chip shops show customer appreciation with deals to celebrate National Fish and Chip Day

WE HAVE SUPPLIED INBUILT SUPERPAD SYSTEMS (TRIPLE FILTRATION) FOR FACTORY FITTING TO: MARTYN EDWARDS FRANK FORD

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any fish and chip shops hosted deals to celebrate the day, but Atlantis Fish Bar in Grimsbury took it a massive step further.

The fish and chip shop located in Middleton Road offered a half price deal on regular cod and chips meals every day for the entire month of September!

Caroline Rickard, the manager at Atlantis Fish Bar, said: “I feel like when you do a special deal for one day people seem to miss it, this way they keep coming back.

We wanted to do our bit to support the community, and it certainly went down very well.”

“We’re the national dish so really, it should be celebrated more than the one national day.”

This event is championed by trade organisation, The National Edible Oil Distributors Association (NEODA), who represents the oils & fats industry.

What did you do for National Fish and Chip Day? Email austen@chippychat. co.uk

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 • November 2020

Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • November 2020

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Inside

November 2020

Collins Seafoods an integral part of the UK’s Frozen at Sea supply chain

Har-Glees!

Harley’s opening in Westbury high street!

Distinguished!

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Former bank - now a chippy & boutique hotel!

30 Years in the MaKING! Kings Heritage Blend 30

A Smarter Batter for Delivery!

Goldensheaf’s new Smart Batter

Making Plans FREE YEAR planner for 2021

Cab and Chips!

From taxi to gourmet fish and chip van

Wheely Good!

Shappy Wheels Expands their Fleet with Profry

Kevin Sent!

McWhinney’s Gluten Free Sausages

Model Fjord Tea!

Choose Sustainable Seafood from Norway

Santa Claus is Coming to Town Use your Save & Select Points for Christmas

Maximum Committment Mitchell’s Excellent Service & Dedication

Upgrade Your Chips!

Miami Nice!

Justin Brown Opens “The Chippy” at Balan’s

COD-Gratulations!

National Fish & Chip Day

OrChesteral Manoeuvres in the Mark!

Big Investment in Little Markham Vale

Awesam!

Oceans 52 Transformed with Help from Hewigo and Sheridan Smith

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Es 30 tab Ye lish ar ed s

A Change of Tide!

Frying Range Engineers Servicing all makes of ranges, covering East Anglia, East Midlands & London/M25 Annual Range Servicing • Insurance Certificates Duct Steam Cleaning • Repairs • Modifications

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Refurbished / Rebuilds / New Traditional & Dutch Makes Extraction Systems & Ductwork Shopfitting Design & Refurbishment Fire Damage, Repairs & Upgrades

PG - The Home of Pre-Pared Fresh Cut Chips

Vic Graham & Son Ltd The Spuds You Like

Howard’s Way! Chip Shed try Babylon Potatoes from Agrico!

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Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • November 2020

For prompt, efficient service please call:

01553 772935

sales@klsonline.co.uk Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • November 2020 In association with

Frying Ranges

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AChange of Tide!

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ince the 1980’s, Collins Seafoods has been an integral part of the UK’s Frozen at Sea supply chain, delivering only the highest quality fish and sundries to restaurants, takeaways and wholesalers from our depots in County Durham and Leeds. With a fantastic offering from some of the world’s finest fishing vessels, including the Kirkella, Berlin and the brand new Geir, we are proud to be industry leaders in bringing the UK and Ireland sustainably caught fish with full traceability. Over the last 40 years we have worked hard to develop and nurture strong relationships with sustainable MSC certified vessels throughout Europe, to offer our customers exactly what we have always promised - the finest Frozen at Sea fish.

You may remember a little while ago that we announced we would be updating our company branding and we can now announce that Collins Seafoods and Wraggs Seafoods are changing their names! This autumn Collins Seafoods will become Collins Seafoods North East Limited, while Wraggs Seafoods will take on the Collins Seafoods name and become Collins Seafoods Yorkshire Limited.

Over the summer, our team having been working hard to finalise the company rebrand, ready to fully launch this autumn. The new branding has a more modern feel, while staying true to

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Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • November 2020

the values and integrity at the heart of the Collins Seafoods tradition.

Over the last few months we initiated a soft launch of the new branding. You may have noticed that our delivery fleet has had a makeover with new decals, and our drivers have all been given a new grey uniform. Our offices have also had new signs installed on the buildings to reflect the new depot names.

In the next few weeks we will begin the final stage of our rebrand, with our new website launching! We will also begin to merge all of our social media pages into one singular company page on each platform, to allow for faster response times and a stronger company presence.

This is an exciting time for us here at Collins Seafoods and we are delighted to see all of the hard work and planning come to fruition. We hope you love our new branding as much as we do!

Contact Collins Seafoods North East: Unit 2, Park 2000, Heighington Lane Business Park, Newton Aycliffe, County Durham DL5 6AR Tel: (01325) 315544 Email: sales@collinsseafoods.co.uk Web: www.collinsseafoods.co.uk Wraggs Seafoods Yorkshire: Unit 2, Felnex Crescent, Cross Green Industrial Estate, Leeds, LS9 0SN Tel: (0113) 2498832 Email: sales@wraggsseafoods.co.uk

Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • November 2020

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COLLINS SEAFOODS PROVIDING THE FINEST FROZEN AT SEA FISH SINCE 1980

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COLLINS SEAFOODS: UnitChat 2, Park 2000, Heighington Business Park, Newton Aycliffe, County Durham, DL5 6AR • November 7 7 315544 Chippy & Fast Food Magazine •Lane November 2020 Chippy Chippy Chat Chat & Fast & Fast Food Food Magazine Magazine • October 2020 T 01325 WRAGGS SEAFOODS: Unit 2, Felnex Crescent, Cross Green Industrial Estate, Leeds, LS9 0SN

T 0113 249 8832

HarGlees!

Top quality fish & chips opens in Westbury high street!

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arlees – a third generation family business – opened recently in Westbury and owner Richard Long says their slogan, “Fanatical About Fish’ is at the heart of everything they do.

The nautically-themed and ambiently-lit shop chain restaurants only use cod and haddock from sustainable sources, to help secure fish stocks for the future and to ensure environmental kindness and responsibility.

Cod and haddock are fished in the cold waters of the Burren Sea off Galway.

“It’s frozen within five hours of being caught on factory trawlers which have their own processing plants on them, and it keeps the quality absolutely superb,” said Richard.

He also sources products directly from fishermen closer to home. “I go down to see fishermen at Weymouth – they don’t know what they’re going to bring out of the sea but they might have some really good stuff and I’ll say, ‘wow, I want that’, and then we can get that nice fresh fish straight out to the shops and put it on the menu board – some nice skate or brill or sea bass – and it’s fresh.”

Richard says what sets Harlees apart from other, nearby takeaways is the customer experience.

“We do things differently,” he says. “We want it to be not just fish and chips, but to be an experience because the very best fish and chips are fresh fish and chips. You cannot beat it straight out of the cooker, on a plate, on a table, piping hot.

“We don’t serve our takeaways in bags so it hasn’t steamed up or anything, so you’re not

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Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • November 2020

losing the crispness of the batter. You’ve spent all this time and effort to do this great product, then put it in a bag and it’s gone soggy. We use boxes with steam holes so the air can circulate.”

“We’ve recently developed our own batter – it’s unique to us. Everyone’s got their own recipe but even I don’t know the recipe, it’s that secret!

“It’s a very light crisp batter and our feedback from customers has been so positive so we cook to order.

“We want people to see our logo above the shop and think “Harlees – it’s good, it’s reliable and I know I can go there and know what I’m getting.”

Online ordering Due to the Covid-19 climate, Harlees is currently offering takeaways only, which can be ordered via their own app.

“We are concentrating on the takeaway and getting the click and collect service right,” Richard explained. “We want people to do click and collect because the advantage with that is you can go online to order it, book your timeslot, come in, pay for it by card, and your food will be ready for you to pick up straight away “We have been avoiding phone usage purely because it takes us away from doing customer service and the cooking.”

“We all have to move with the times and that’s how we do it,” Richard added.

“We want to concentrate on the customers we’ve got and to do that we want to avoid doing phone orders.”

On the app the business will be advertising promotions and customers can peruse the regularly updated menu.

Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • November 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 calllower01302 It’s naturally in trans fats, 390880 non-hydrogenated and delivers Chippy Chatperformance & Fast&Food Magazine • November 2020 Chippy Chat Fast with Food Magazine • April 2020 the highest 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 • November 2020 fry itChat in. For the tastiest results go Superior, the most respected, refined and deodorised

high frying fat and enhance the

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Distinguished!

Former bank is now a chip shop and boutique hotel!

By Austen Dack

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have been watching with interest over the last few years the introduction and growth of Dan Chuter & Caroline and Gregg Howard’s Chip Shed brand! With a promise to visit coming to fruition in October I visited their new Bourton on Water flag ship to catch up with Caroline and Gregg and of course try their awardwinning fish and chips!

Based in the heart of the idyllic Bourtonon-the-Water, the newest addition to The Chip Shed family is a former Lloyds bank!

After all these years in the business I really do admire their continuing passion for fish and chips, and you can tell they still really love what they do. Their ethos is simple - to provide the best tasting, authentic British Fish and Chips... and guess what - I believe they have continued to do just that!

The search for a perfect location for a new fish and chip shop is not an easy one.

They had located the Cotswolds as an

Chippy ChippyChat Chat&&Fast FastFood FoodMagazine Magazine••November November2020 2020

area they would like to explore, and then Bourton as one they would home in on.

Some twelve months later after one or two near misses the old bank came on the market. In the centre of the village it was considered to be a prime site, if relevant permissions could be sought. Bourton-onthe-Water is home to the River Windrush, crossed by five low, arched stone bridges, as well as long-wide greens used by tourists to relax and a Grade-II listed model village. The village often has more visitors than residents during peak times of the tourist season.

The team promised to deliver “So much more than Fish and Chips... We aim to be open in June 2019, so not long to wait before we bring our award-winning fish and chips to Bourton-on-the-Water.”

Once they got the go-ahead the real work started. Converting a bank throws up its own problems. Trying to change internal walls was a challenge. George Howard who oversaw the redesign said.

“When we started to knock down the first wall, we realised that being a bank

Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • November 2020

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the walls were fortified, and indeed a lot stronger than normal internal walls.” Other quirky parts include the safe room, (the bars remain), and getting the range into the building, which resulted in it going through the space in the wall where the cash machine used to be!

The business had only been open a few months when the pandemic struck. Gregg said. “Obviously, we had to adapt our offering to suit. We introduced a click and collect service, and only let customers in on a two by two basis.”

Thankfully, they reopened the restaurant (now closed again) and table service outside in time for a busy summer trading.

This was only enhanced by the news that the other large chippy in the village ceased trading in 2020.

Once the refurbishment of the shop was complete and it was up and trading, thoughts turned to the rest of the building.

Upstairs the bank had several meeting rooms and also a living quarters too. The plan was to modernise and refigure these rooms to create a separate boutique hotel for Bourton, one which would have one of the best views in the Cotswolds.

Enter stage right George again. He was on hand with Gregg and manager Jim Houlston to do much of the hard work himself. The trio even staying there

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Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • November 2020

mid-way thru, when the plush ensuite rooms were still far away dream, and the sumptuous king size beds were replaced with those of the canvas variety.

The resultant rooms, named after foreign currencies (we stayed in the Sterling), are incredible. The desire to provide luxury rooms at the heart of Bourton, with great service and an intention to detail has been exceeded on every level. Rooms are available to book via booking.com In the evening of our stay we went into the Chip Shed Restaurant to try their fish and chips and more. We all tucked into Amity Fish Company’s Scampi (Jimmy Buchan take a bow), haddock, cod, prawn cocktail, homemade fishcake, battered asparagus, curry sauce, mushy peas, tartare sauce and of course some lovely East Anglian grown chipped potatoes! Washed down with local Cotswold gin (and lager). The food, ambience, & company were all first class.

The Chip Shed journey is not over I am sure for Dan, Gregg and Caroline, and based on their hard work at Bourton nor are their plaudits.

What an advert for our industry. www.chipshed.co.uk www.booking.com/hotel/gb/old-bank-rooms

Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • November 2020

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30 Years in the MaKING! Kings Heritage Blend 30

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iddleton’s are celebrating 30 years of producing and wanted to mark the occasion with the launch of a brand-new type of batter.

Kings Heritage Blend 30 is a combination of different types of flour, contains no artificial colours or flavours and is a next generation product for the modern fryer.

The batter is designed to mix easily, fry extra crispy but also hold for longer in the cabinet. The batter is a light golden colour and the response from the trials of the product have been outstanding. Sales Manager, Ryan Baker commented ‘We were looking to put something together to celebrate this milestone for the Middleton Group.

Blend 30 has been trialled across the whole country and the comments and f e e d b a c k h ave been astonishing.

The product really has captured everything that we have learned from many years of making batters.’

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Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • November 2020

Kings Heritage Blend 30

• A unique blend of flours to suit the modern fryer

• Fries extra crispy with a light golden colour • Designed to sit longer in the holding cabinet • Ideal for take-away, restaurant and delivery

• New product to celebrate our 30th year of batter production

Middleton Foods are proud of their products but even more so of their industry leading sales team. With six knowledgeable and experienced Area Sales Managers covering the whole Country, they are always on hand for free product demonstrations, frying training and samples so contact Middleton’s to arrange your visit today.

For your free sample please email sales@ middletonfoods.com

For samples or information T: 01902 608122 Visit: www.middletonfoods.com

Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • November 2020

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BLEND 30 Batter Mix

To celebrate 30 years of trading we have produced this special batter mix Blend 30.

We have been passionate about making batter mix for over 50 years and in this Blend 30 we have used all of our expertise and skill to produce a product that is the best of the best.

This celebration blend is the ultimate product for crispness, increased holding time and quality.

We hope you love it as much as we do.

Leonard & Sylvia Middleton

• A unique blend of flours • Fries extra crispy with a light golden colour • Designed to sit longer in the holding cabinet • Ideal for take-away, restaurant and delivery For a FREE sample please call 01902 608122 or visit www.middletonfoods.com Instagram @middletonfoods Find us on: Facebook Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • November 2020

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@MiddletonFrying Twitter @middletonfoods Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • November 2020

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A smarter batter for Delivery!

Goldensheaf have created a new Smart Batter that stays crisper for longer so is perfect for delivery

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ntroducing the Goldensheaf Smart Batter from the UK’s leading batter brand. Made with unique technology, Smart Batter helps battered foods stay crispier for longer and is specially created to absorb at least 10% less oil – meaning a saving for your business and a healthier difference for your customers!

With the same authentic taste and quality expected from Goldensheaf, our Smart Batter guarantees the same experience throughout.

Smart Batter guarantees

• Improved flavour and golden colour • A crispier batter that holds for longer making it perfect for delivery

• Minimum 5% lower calorie content

• Minimum 10% oil saving depending on frying medium

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• Easy mixing which provides a good and even adhesion and is easy to prepare

Here at Goldensheaf we are passionate about providing quality batters to Fish and Chip shops up and down the country. Peckish was the first shop in the UK to purchase Goldensheaf Smart Battermix almost 2 years ago and haven’t looked back since the move.

One of the best and busiest fish and chip takeaways in the UK. Peckish is a family run business and Robert & Louise Peck have ensured both children are involved. Son Jamie first started as the potato boy and has now been head fryer for the last 2 years,

art & Chi batter Golden af Sm iest fish and cing the UK’s leading logy, Fish Goldenshe hno Introdu t and bus from the unique tec foods with of the bes in the UK. d Batter with and battere and is One takeaways Made iness p helps brand. run bus ured Batter for longer at least chi a family k have ens Son Smart r orb kish is crispie ise Pec involved. d to abs a saving Pec stay & Lou ato boy er Robert ldren are ly create meaning lthi cial – hea the pot spe chi and a rted as d fryer for the less oil both 10% iness ers! first sta hea leigh ie bus n tom r Ash Jam bee er your cus for you te and and has nowwhile daught Robert & nce for tic tas differe sheaf, last 2 years, r assistant. authen & Chip same Golden the counte n in the Fish starting With the ected from rantees is the exp years; gua p have bee . quality art Batter Louise for over 21 fish and chi ughout in ry bile shop our Sm erience thro t indust mo firs a ir exp tees ur same off with ving onto theed by Peckish guaran golden colo t Batter van, mo uth, follow ter tha Smart ed flavour and or mo p bat e Bourne ago. t holds f • Improv p in the is a cristheir bespok d ter tha rs for sho bat yea t t , this 11 fec pier nee the firs sheaf Smart Overall • A cris making it per l inside there is no ort and travels wel kish was se Golden rep t aning ago longer Pec ten years ing, me Peckish also larly purcha rie con y ve. ticu s. deliver UK to ix almost 2 er calo packag the mo g ds par since 5% low stic bag k hol thin m term pla bac d ing Bat for nte batter , unlike any ans • Minimu 10% oil sav dium t looked comme t the m me haven’ Jamie m just what tha in the hotbox d, which me ger & • Minimu ing on frying a ert l lon trie s the Rob provide t gives certainly has wel they have crispier for depend Both h oleic which and y else produc and stay’s kish use hig alter mixing n adhesion n. The that the looking for petitio • Easy e products . Pec d eve to not they are e on the com ater adhesiv feels good an prepare e cooked ch helps onc the and gre are to edg p t, whi y kee duc the oil s them is eas to fry, af we them the pro 30% less m the oil quality feel it giveas it helps denshe te of oil ng the s at Gol ut providing ps up the tas them aroundvious battera 22, givi qualitie s Here ir pre ate abo Chip sho it give ud batter thin with than the passion to Fish and . We’re pro . pickup art perfect mix batter ation. batters n the country icated Sm t for this art combin ve real tes sheaf Sm and dow ce a ded , who ser r, the den odu but ers Howeve eating. Gol at taste, to intr to custom gre and the a ter in ate es is Bat pal provid clean previous ntly a Batter ’s importa h Peckish kaging more Wit the pac ntion outer. rete crisp ches on oil pat the oil art batter, ious due to using Sm y were obv fish. Since n remarkabl er bee healthi in the this has a cleaner, batter ng d, givi reduce all round. other t ber of produc a num tfolio our por also use ry Peckish ducts from Irish Cur pro rse aclass Kerry ite Coa ing Din sheaf Wh ase visit lud inc & Golden info ple k Sauce For more e.co.u . dservic Crumb erry-foo www.k

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Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • November 2020

while daughter Ashleigh is the counter assistant. Robert & Louise have been in the Fish & Chip industry for over 21 years; startingoff with a mobile fish and chip van, moving onto their first shop in Bournemouth, followed by Peckish 11 years ago.

Both Robert & Jamie commented that the product gives them just what they are looking for and certainly has the edge on the competition. They feel it gives them greater adhesive qualities as it helps them keep the batter thin with a 22, giving them the perfect mix.

Overall, this is a crisp batter that travels well inside their bespoke packaging, meaning there is no need for plastic bags.

Peckish also report that the batter holds particularly well in the hotbox, unlike anything else they have tried, which means products stay’s crispier for longer once cooked. Peckish use high oleic oil to fry, which helps to not alter the taste of the product, and feels it gives them around 30% less oil pickup than their previous batter-oil combination.

However, the real test for this batter is in the eating. Goldensheaf SmartBatter provides a great taste, but more importantly a clean palate and crisp outer.

With Peckish’s previous batter, oil patches on the packaging were obvious due to the oil retention in the fish. Since using Smart batter this has been remarkably reduced, giving a cleaner, healthier product all round.

Peckish also use a number of other Kerry products from our portfolio including Dinaclass Irish Curry Sauce & Goldensheaf White Coarse Crumb.

For more info please visit www.kerry-foodservice.co.uk

Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • November 2020

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T RY ECIVE RF EL PE D R FO

SMART BATTER THE BATTER THAT HOLDS IT’S CRISP Goldensheaf Smart Batter absorbs less oil, meaning your products stay crispier for longer IDEAL FOR DELIVERY

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www.kerry-foodservice.co.uk Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • November 2020

Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • November 2020

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FREE YEAR planner for W 2021! e are all hoping for a better 2021 already!

Enclosed with this edition of Chippy Chat we are giving you ALL a FREE 2021 YEAR PLANNER inside every copy. 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.

When you open your GIANT year planner please put it up and send us a picture of it in your shop to austen@chippychat.co.uk.

Once again, we have had incredible support from the trade to help support this great free tool. The main sponsor this year is Sarson’s vinegar, but a big thanks to all of our partners! We will soon be working on the year planner for 2022, so if you are a supplier to the trade and would like all year round advertising email austen@chippychat.co.uk!

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Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • November 2020

2020 has been a strange year Chippy Chat towers here’s to a much improved 2021!

Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • November 2020

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Your Chance to Win a FREE Pallet of Frymax 12.5kg Worth Over £1,000!

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(Two runners up prizes of a half pallet)

This is your chance to win Eighty, yes Eighty boxes or even Forty, yes Forty 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 Competition section and submit the answer to the question below: Is Frymax made from a) beef dripping, b) sunflower oil or c) 100% sustainable palm oil?

Entries will be accepted up to 30th November and the winners 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.

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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 • November 2020

Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • November 2020

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Cab and Chips!

Taxi man launches new gourmet fish and chip van

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he owner of a taxi firm has spent £40,000 converting a van into a gourmet fish and chip shop, which has just launched on the north Norfolk coast.

Peter Thorogate, 47, has high hopes for the new venture, called Chish and Fiddy, since his taxi firm is still running about 40pc down on last year due to coronavirus.

Mr Thorogate, who worked as a chef for 20 years in places such as the Seamarge at Overstrand and the White Horse at Blakeney, said he was thrilled to be back in the kitchen.

The Sheringham resident said: “The taxi company obviously got hit very hard by Covid, so during the lockdown I thought about where I could invest in another business. I did a search for ‘fish and chip van near me’ and the nearest one that came up was 46 miles away, so I thought there might be a bit of a gap in the market.”

Mr Thorogate said the van would be based opposite the play park in Cromer Road, Sheringham on Friday and Saturday evenings, and would move around the town and nearby villages through the rest of the week.

He said food vans were a booming sector, which had been spurred on by different lifestyles brought about by the coronavirus crisis.

Mr Thorogate said: “There’s a big proportion of elderly people around here who are still shielding, so I can go straight to those streets, and hopefully offer

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Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • November 2020

something in those villages haven’t had before.”

He said his concept was to offer a gourmet spin on traditional fish and chips.

“It’s bespoke fish and chips,” he said.

“For example our mushy peas have fresh peas, spoked bacon and fresh mint on top. We’ll have a quality beef burger, vegetarian and vegan options - just doing things a bit differently.

Mr Thorogate said he also planned to do catering at special events and had already had three bookings for weddings next year, before the business was even launched.

He added: “It has been fantastically well received although there’s a lot of competition out there. I’m hoping to set myself apart by doing these little cheffy bits that will wow the customers.”

Mr Thorogate said he started Sheringham-based PD Taxis five years ago as just himself driving one vehicle, and he now had five drivers and five taxis.

He said that by taking himself out of the mix it meant he could keep his taxi staff on despite the drop in business.

Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • November 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/ supplier for further information.

19 Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • November 2020 Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • November 2020

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Wheely Good!

Shappy Wheels Expands their Fleet with Profry

T

he team at award winning Shap Chippy have launched a second Fish and Chip Van serving the communities expanding across Cumbria.

This state-of-the-art van has a new home in Appleby, at a purpose-built unit which houses a professional prep kitchen. Not only has Appleby got the Appleby Arrows, the Harry Potter Quiddich Team, but now the magic Shappy Wheels Chippy Vans too!

The van has been designed and built to their exacting standards by Profry who are based in Peterborough.

‘To be able to expand our new business during these crazy Covid times is a true blessing. The local communities have been such an amazing support and we wanted to bring Fish and Chips to more people each week, so we’ve got a second van on the road already after just 6 months!’ Said Matt, Co-Owner.

This Eden valley chip shop was awarded the honour of 2nd Best Fish and Chip Shop in the UK in the 2020 National Fish and Chip Awards earlier this year, and these pioneering owners have not stopped growing the brand and representing the Nations Favourite Dish at its finest. Having just been awarded the highest food hygiene rating of 5 by Eden District Council Environmental Health Department.

‘We feel that it’s so important to support the local communities, now more than ever. To have a Chippy Van come to

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Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • November 2020

your village where you may be locked down and not had a treat like a chippy tea in ages is just the best feeling for both us and the customer!’ Said Ashley, CoOwner.

Shappy Wheels is a growing brand that is going from strength to strength, despite the current climate. Matt and Ashley, co-owners of Shap Chippy and Shappy Wheels, took ownership of Shap Chippy in July 2018 and have grown the business into a well-known brand across Cumbria and beyond.

What’s different on this new van? Well, in collaboration with Paul Newbold at ProFry, Matt & Ashley have redesigned the whole van inside and out. Inside the use of lighter weight materials, and a new layout makes Covid social distancing easier and the food cooking process streamlined. On the outside, the team at Eat Marketing have branded the vans, paying homage to the beautiful mountains, lakes and local monuments founds only in Cumbria.

We can’t wait to see what’s next for the up and coming new Fish and Chip Van Empire from the team at Shap Chippy and now Shappy Wheels.

Ashley said “We are over the moon with both our fish and chip vans, Paul at Profry listened to what we had to say right from the start, and the result is two fantastic vehicles which covers all of our needs, especially whilst we are still coping with the pandemic.”

Paul at Profry said. “It is an absolute pleasure to work with Matt and Ashley.

Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • November 2020

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Their first Shappy Wheels was built before the pandemic struck, and whilst still fantastic for them, the second has been adapted especially, whilst still being a great unit for them when we actually go back to normal. We look forward to working with Shap on many more fish and chip vans in the future.”

If you are looking for a fish and chip van, why not give Paul and the team at Profry a call.

With their extensive knowledge in the mobile catering industry, they can advise you in all aspects from the layout of your van, to how to use it once it’s up and running!

You can arrange to meet them face to face or, if preferred, just give them a call for some quick tips!

They can offer advice on Interior Design Van Layout Menu Choices How to clean down your van in the correct way for health & safety How best to cook the foods on your menu Exterior design

Contact

Gas advice Suitable locations for your van Most profitable times to be serving And Much more

111 Spalding Road, Deeping St James PE6 8SD info@profryltd.uk www.profryltd.uk 01778342915

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Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • November 2020

Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • November 2020

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Kevin Sent!

McWhinney’s Gluten Free Sausages

M

cWhinney’s have been making the same high quality Irish Pork Sausages since 1898 and current Managing Director, Kevin McWhinney, has promised to be loyal to the original recipe that has served the past four generations so well.

In December 2018 an event occurred which forced a change in his thinking. He was discovered as being gluten intolerant following a diagnosis of Coeliac Disease.

This meant that he could no longer eat and enjoy the sausages which he had eaten since he was a child. This distressed Kevin so much that he decided he had to do something about it. He set out to recreate the original McWhinney’s sausage, but with one important difference – it had to be gluten free and it had to taste just like the original McWhinney’s sausages.

Over the coming months he made several attempts to recreate the original taste, but being a perfectionist, nothing please him. He continued to strive for the taste which he was so used to and experienced many failed attempts before finally coming up with a recipe which not only pleased him, but tasted just like the original McWhinney’s sausages he had been eating for so long.

The solution turned out to be more expensive than the original sausage

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Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • November 2020

because he refused to use anything but the best ingredients. He had achieved his aim in developing a gluten free sausage which tasted the same as his original extremely popular sausage.

The only downside is that the gluten free sausage will be slightly more expensive than the original, but Kevin believes that coeliacs all over the country will be able to enjoy a gluten free sausage which tastes like a real McWhinney’s sausage.

Kevin has always believed that he should not sell a product that he is not prepared to let his family eat, so, on this occasion, the person he had to please was the biggest food critic in his family – Kevin himself. He also told us that one of the most important principles he had been taught in business came from both his late father and grandfather when they said that quality will remain long after price is forgotten.

Contact McWhinney’s Sausages Ltd, 10 Balloo Way, Balloo Industrial Est., Bangor, Co. Down, N. Ireland, BT19 7QZ Tel: 028 9127 1811 Fax: 028 9127 1795 Email: info@mcwhinneys.com Web: www.mcwhinneys.com

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You Asked, We Answered! customers have been asking ”Our for sachets ever since we’ve taken away the serve yourself bottles. ” Eamon Staunton, The Frying Squad

really need Sarson’s sachets ” We for customers who want to do their own vinegar. ” Martin Richards, Galaxy Fish Bar

operating click & ”We’re collect and delivery so Sarson’s sachets would be fantastic! ” Calum Richardson, The Bay

sachets would make life ” Sarson’s a lot easier for us, especially when customers are queuing across the market square for takeaway!

”

Jeanette Naden, Longnor Fish & Chip Shop

I C N U G D N O E R T W S a s N ’ c n h o e s t I r s !

Sa Now your customers can enjoy the UK’s No. 1 Malt Vinegar in a safe, convenient and hygienic sachet.

Perfect for your Covid safe service.

Take Away – simple to include in bag to add at home Delivery – just add as an option on your online menu Table Service – easy to serve on the side

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Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • November 2020

Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • November 2020

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SMALL IN FORMAT, BIG ON TASTE Brewed from British malt, fermented with larch wood wool from the Leighton Estate in Wales and matured in Siberian pine vats - we’ve been producing vinegar the same way since 1794, using quality British ingredients such as malted barley and water. This unique process gives Sarson’s its distinctive kick and the taste your customers love. The latest addition to our range is small in size, but big on flavour. Available through leading wholesalers from October.

Show You Care Never before has it been so important for your customers to trust you and the brands you serve. Whether it’s cleaning regularly, wearing masks, enforcing social distancing or offering contactless ordering and payment, it’s the little things that show you care.

Independent research* has shown 90% of customers prefer to see the brands they know and trust when it comes to condiments when eating out and 3 out of 4 consumers consider a fish and chip shop that offers branded condiments to be a more quality establishment than those serving unbranded.

As the UK’s No. 1 Malt Vinegar, Sarson’s has been craft brewed in the UK using the same method for over 200 years and 9 out of 10 fish and chip shop customers would prefer their fish and chips sprinkled with Sarson’s Malt Vinegar rather than Non-Brewed Condiment (NBC).* So show them you care and show you’re proud to serve Sarson’s.

Stay Safe with Sarson’s As we all adjust to the new normal we are here to help.

That’s why along with our FREE POS Kit we’ve created our Stay Safe with Sarson’s Social Distancing Kit (including 4 posters and 4 floor stickers).

Claim yours and find out more at www.switchtosarsons.co.uk Get all the latest news, offers and competitions on

@SarsonsforChippies

*Independent consumer insight Toluna June 2019, sample 504 consumers.

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Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • November 2020

Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • November 2020

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Model Fjord Tea! Choose Sustainable Seafood from Norway

W

ith brutally cold temperatures and a rough climate, Norway is an inhospitable place for humans – but these unforgiving qualities also make Norway the perfect home for seafood.

The Norwegian coast, including all the islands and fjords, is over 100,000km long – more than double the length of the equator.

Norway’s chilly coastal waters provide the perfect conditions for both inshore fisheries and aquaculture. Which is why, for thousands of years, the hardy Norwegians who settled in this tough landscape have made fishing their livelihood.

Seafood is Norway’s second biggest industry (after oil). As such, fishing is an inextricable part of the Norwegian economy, and a deep love of the sea is embedded in Norwegian culture.

Its fishing traditions date back thousands of years, from the Vikings, who battled the cold to build communities along the coast, to Leif Erikson, the famous explorer, whose voyage to America was possible only thanks to a steady supply of dried cod – a product created using fresh cod, wooden racks and the power of Norway’s climate as an open-air dryer.

It is no surprise, then, that today Norway is a fishing nation bursting at the seams with years of knowledge. Quite simply, fishing is in Norwegians’ genes.

Sustainable wild fisheries management leaders

From pioneering management and regulations to diverse fishing fleets, everything the Norwegians do has

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Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • November 2020

sustainability at its heart. All Norwegian cod and haddock is MSC-certified. So important is responsible stewardship that it has underpinned the entire cod fishing process since 1987, when Norway imposed a discard ban. In the years since, there have been virtually no cases of illegal, unreported or unregulated cod fishing in Norwegian waters.

Over the years the industry has evolved from free fishing to strict regulation.

Fisheries use a range of catch methods, from trawling to hand-line, and Norway was the first country to implement a quota system. The quotas in place are recommended by the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea – a leading international research body, which assesses stocks and helps the Norwegians plan for the future. Implementing its strict quotas enables Norwegians to maintain healthy fish stocks, ensuring that they have never overfished – and never will.

Be proud to cite and shout about “Norwegian” seafood on your menu

Whether you choose seafood from Norway for its superior quality, green credentials or simply the story, you’ll be sourcing ingredients from a country where they take great pride in their fishing methods and rich heritage. Where fishing is not just an industry but a way of life, so be proud to cite “Norwegian” produce on your fish and chip menu.

For further information on quality, legislation and sustainability please visit www.seafoodfromnorway.co.uk

Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • November 2020

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Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • November 2020

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le from:

Santa Claus is Coming to Town!

Use your Save & Select points for Christmas!

T

he Q Partnership – Henry Colbeck, VA Whitley and Friars Pride.

Save & Select is the long running customer loyalty scheme which has been running for over 25 years. Traditionally many of our customers collect and then redeem their points to help towards their Christmas shopping.

It gives you some great rewards to choose from helping to make your Christmas 2020 as great as possible after a tough 2020.

Just 250 Save & Select Points can be exchanged for £10.00 worth of vouchers from a great choice which includes Sainsbury’s Amazon and the Love2shop Gift Card. Love2shop Vouchers are the UK’s leading multi-retailer gift voucher.

They can be redeemed in over 20,000 stores, restaurants and attractions, with over 150 top brands to choose from such as Debenhams, Boots, Matalan, Argos, WH Smith, River Island & New Look Points can also be turned back into

vouchers to spend with your Q partnership partner.

Georgina Colebeck, Marketing Director at Henry Colbeck commented; “It has been a tough year for us all this year. We love giving our customers something to say thank you for their business and Save & Select provides us with the ideal opportunity to do just that.

The choice of vouchers is very appealing as it provides the flexibility for customers to treat themselves to exactly what they want, when they want it.”

Exclusively Available from: Exclusively Available from:

ck Ltd.

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Friars Pride Ltd. Henry Colbeck Ltd.

Henry V.A.Whitley Colbeck Co. Ltd.Ltd. Friars&Pride Ltd.

Friars Pride&Ltd. V.A.Whitley Co. Ltd.

V.A.

www.friarspride.com W: W: www.colbeck.co.uk

W:W: www.colbeck.co.uk www.vawhitley.co.uk W: www.friarspride.com

W:www.vawhitley.co.uk www.friarspride.com W:

W: ww

01733 T: T: 0191 482316400 4242

co.uk

T:T:0191 01706 482 4242 316400 T:364211 01733

Members of The Q Partnership

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Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • November 2020

01733364211 316400 T:T:01706

Members of The Q Partnership

Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • November 2020

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T: 01

Members o

Save Select

YOU CLOSER EVERY POINT TAKES

Gifts for everyone!

CONVERTS TO

Save & Select is the Customer Loyalty

Scheme from Henry Colbeck, VA Whitley and Friars Pride.

£10

WORTH OF GIFT CARDS!

You can exchange just 250 Save & Select Points for £10.00 on a great choice of gift cards and rewards from Amazon, Love2shop and Sainsbury’s.

It is our way of saying thank you for your continued support and for choosing a member of the Q Partnership as your supplier.

We’re the only suppliers to the Fish & Chip market to offer a loyalty scheme and with Christmas just around the corner, now is the ideal time to redeem your points.

Redeem your points now... in time for Christmas shopping!

For more information about the Save & Select Customer Loyalty Scheme, contact your nearest Q Partnership company.

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Henry Colbeck Limited, Seventh Avenue, Team Valley Trading Estate, Gateshead, Tyne & Wear NE11 0HG

VA Whitley and Co Limited, Milward House, Fir Street, Heywood, Lancashire OL10 1NW

Tel: 0191 482 4242

Tel: 01706 364 211 Tel: 01733 316 400 29 Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • November 2020 www.vawhitley.co.uk www.friarspride.com

Chippy Chat & Fast Foodwww.colbeck.co.uk Magazine • November 2020

Friars Pride Limited, Oxney Road Industrial Estate, Oxney Road, Peterborough PE1 5YW

Maximum Mitchell’s Excellent Service & Dedication to Frying Potatoes

is operated by Robert’s Great Great Grand Children David, Stuart, and Angus Mitchell.

M

itchell’s is the UK’s fastest growing and largest wholesale merchant for chipping potatoes in the UK. They are a family owned and managed business who take great pleasure in providing both quality potatoes and an efficient service.

They delivery daily to fish and chip shops, fast food takeaways, pubs, fish restaurants and wholesalers across England and Wales.

History Mitchell Potatoes have a long history dating back to the 1800’s of both growing and selling potatoes. A fifthgeneration business their distribution area has grown substantially over the last twenty years. Originally Robert Mitchell and his family arrived from his farm in Scotland and started to grow and sell potatoes in Warwickshire in 1883! In recent years, the company

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Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • November 2020

Farmers They work closely with selected growers from grade one growing areas, who use certified seeds. This results in ever increasing quality. They purchase potatoes throughout the UK, taking advantage of different growing regions throughout the year to keep a consistent quality standard.

All their growers operate their farms to Assured Produce Scheme standards and are APS registered and independently audited. The result is safe food, with produce traceability, accountability, and safe use and application of herbicides and pesticides.

Potatoes are predominantly sourced from Cambridgeshire and Lincolnshire.

These potatoes have been stored in temperature-controlled box stores to help keep them firm with consistent fry colours.

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Innovation They work closely with seed houses to identify new varieties that work well for both the grower and end user. They introduced both Ramos and Markies to the chipping sector! They can guarantee you a potato to suit your taste 52 weeks of the year. No other supplier in the UK stocks such a wide variety of chipping potatoes.

Quality Every load of fresh potatoes that they collect from a farm is tested for: Peeling quality and yield, size, fry quality and appearance, taste and texture. Ultimately, they look for potatoes that produce a good yield as well as providing a delicious golden chip.

Nick - Foleys Fish Bar, Kidderminster.

We have got three shops and have a few years of great service form Mitchells. We are on a contract; the quality is great & any issues are sorted out the same day.

They have so many varieties to choose from plus they make up to three drops a week to me. The service from Stuart is so good– very hands on Darren - Taylors Traditional Fish and Chips, Penygraig , Tonypandy.

We have had over ten years with Mitchells, with never any problems. They have lots of varieties, if there is the odd problem, they change them. Always delivered on time, at a fair price. They use the best farmers, and offer great advice on what to order at the right time

Committment!

Areas They are working hard to continually expand their distribution coverage. They currently cover: The Midlands London & greater London The Home Counties South East of England South West of England South coast of England South Wales To see if they can supply you please check on www.mitchells-potatoes.co.uk or call 01926 633323.

Chip Shops Mitchells deal with over one thousand fish and chip shops. Here is what a few of them say about their service Theo - Jolly Fryer, Kirkby in Ashfield.

We have had potatoes from Mitchells for over ten years. Their quality makes them the no1 merchant, the real deal. I am the most passionate chip boy in the world, and the proof is in the pudding, they are 100% behind my business 31

Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • November 2020

James - Berties Fish Bar, Lyndhurst We changed to Mitchells three years ago. They go out of their way to keep us happy. They have never put a foot wrong. I am on contract paying a fair price all year. I am now starting a second shop and will have them there too. I like a yellow flesh on the chip in our restaurant, and they always supply what is best for me.

Contact them today FOR A FREE SAMPLE Call: 01926 633 323 Email: info@mitchells-potatoes.co.uk www.mitchells-potatoes.co.uk/ mitchellpots mitchellpots mitchellspotatoes

Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • November 2020

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Upgrade Your Chips!

PG - The Home of Pre-Packed Fresh Cut Chips

P

G Chips have been lovingly producing the finest chippy chips for you since the year 2000. The new millennium saw the introduction of an exciting new product for the fish and chip industry. One that would reduce overheads, take the worries of buying potatoes away along with the preparation of them, eliminate preparation areas whilst maximising shop space, no waste to dispose of or pay for as 100% yield in every bag, no worries about staff turning in for preparation and holidays to cover or illness etc.

PG Investment Over the past 20 years we have invested each year in new equipment, vehicles, facilities, and staff. This has resulted in a state-of-the-art production facility with full metal detection, starch recovery system, vacuum packaging, potato waste recovery with compacter and holding refrigeration along with all our vehicles being refrigerated. All our potato waste is collected and processed into animal feed which is collected daily by a local farmer who then feeds his cattle with it. We like to think we are doing several councils a massive favour by reducing what goes into the public drainage systems.

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Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • November 2020

Local authorities will be getting stricter with what goes down your shops drain in the future and will require specialist equipment that is likely to not only be expensive but will also leave you with approximately 5kg waste from each 25kg bag to then dispose of!

With a six day shelf life if stored correctly in a refrigerator and deliveries in most cases taking place three times per week Mon,Wed, Fri or Tue, Thur, Sat depending on your location.

Although we are not currently available nationwide this is something we are working on and hope to bring news on this in the near future. We currently deliver to the following areas Greater Manchester Lancashire Merseyside Cheshire Yorkshire Humberside North Staffordshire North Derbyshire North Wales Cumbria Scottish Borders Lothian

Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • November 2020

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Some of our Key Shops

Mark Drummond Town Gate Fisheries As we are a busy but small shop space is at a premium. Using PG Chips freed up valuable space previously used to do potato prep. If stored and used correctly they are identical quality to doing your own and no more expensive when you take staff time into account.

your hands in cold water peeling potatoes, no more worrying about what goes down your drains. PG source the best frying potatoes on the market and actively seek feedback to ensure their customers are happy. Why keep peeling yourself when you get save labour, save water, lower risk of accident or injury, increase profits and raise your bottom line on any fish and chip shops most popular product…chips!

Raf Chandler Hillycroft Fisheries I have been using PG chips to supply us with freshly prepared ready to fry chips for over 8 years. It has saved me a lot of space in a tight kitchen as now we only need a fridge to store the chips in rather than a pallet for the potatoes and all the infrastructure for the rumbler, chipper, eyeing tank, not to mention the half dozen barrels of chips we had to dance around whilst working on a busy day! Now we just go to the fridge and open a 10kg bag as we need it. Not only has it saved us space but also made my operation more efficient and when all costs have been considered I found it to be cost neutral when compared to prepping our own.

Cem Oktem Westgate fish and chips/Packet Bridge We have been using PG Chips for over 2 years now and have never looked back! Paul is able to source the best potatoes available throughout the year from some of the best farmers in the country in order to provide the best chips possible. The vacuum packaging is second to none and for me it’s these two things that make them the best pre prepared chips for frying on the market.

Matt and Ashley Phillips Shap Chippy and Shappy Wheels We have used pre prepared chips for a couple of years from the team at PG Chips and they have been superb. We won 2nd best fish and chip shop 2020 using these chips and our business has gone from strength to strength. No more mornings with 33

Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • November 2020

“PG Chips are an excellent chip, very consistent and very sustainable. They fry very well and taste excellent. I find that they are very cost effective, saving you water, power, wages, cleaning, servicing of equipment and time” David Miller Millers Fish & Chips Haxby paul@pgchips.co.uk 07930 370440 Elton Fold Mill, Bury BL8 1FZ

@freshpgchips

Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • November 2020 New website coming soon.

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TerrifVIC! Ask Vic Graham about their fantastic potato delivery services

V

ic Graham first started selling potatoes back in 1975 and has since become a trusted name within the industry. By building strong relationships with both the growers and the fryers and ensuring a reputation based on trust in providing the best frying potatoes, they have become the chosen supplier for numerous fish & ship shops, takeaways, restaurants and pubs throughout the North West.

As a family run business, our team of staff are also part of the family. We wouldn’t be where we are today without the enthusiasm and dedication of our team, many of which have been with us for years, even decades in some cases!

We are dedicated to looking after all our customers by offering superb quality products at a fair and competitive price.

Mark, Vic’s youngest son, joined the

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Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • November 2020

business full time in 2000, building up his experience first-hand he worked his way through every aspect of the business – from van lad to driver; running the office and managing the accounts through to the buying and selling, on a daily basis.

In July 2019 with Vic wanting to take steps into retirement after 45 years, the business changed to Vic Graham & Son Ltd. Mark now runs the business, driving it forward whilst maintaining the relationships and reputation already built.

The business has gone from a 1-man delivery service to a team dedicated to providing the best service. Four vehicles go out daily to various areas within the NW, each carrying up to 12 tonnes. The rounds are now purposely arranged so that if you are running short, a vehicle will always be close by.

Based in Bury, Greater Manchester, we are ideally located to cover all areas within the North West – Manchester, Leeds, Blackpool, Preston, Blackburn,

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Burnley, Stockport, Ashton, Oldham and Rochdale are just some of the areas covered.

All surrounding areas are easily reachable for us to accommodate your needs.

Don’t just take our word for it, here are a few of our customers thoughts on our service:

Mr Thomas’s of Hollingworth Lake I’ve been using Vic Graham for over twenty years. I have tried other potato suppliers but never really got the service and quality that I receive from Vic Graham. They can drop 10 bags or 150 bags you will still get the same service.

Vic Graham have helped me build my business to what it is today so I will always recommend them

International Chippy, Rochdale Mark and the boys are brilliant always great service provided great variety of potatoes to choose from. If there are any issues (which is rare) Mark will go out of his way to get the best for you. We have never been let down. We have been with them nearly 30 years & wouldn’t hesitate at all to recommend Vic Graham - fantastic service fantastic thank you big guy!

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Foz’s Fish Bar, Failsworth All of us here at Foz’s have been having potatoes off Vic Graham now for approximately 12 years.

The service is amazing, always there when we have needed them. The lads who deliver are extremely helpful, nothing is too much trouble.

They always give us the best price

Armstrongs Fish & Chips, Prestwich I’ve been a customer of Vic Graham’s now for nearly 30 years & never once have I thought of changing potato suppler. Why? Because having delivery’s Mon, Wed , & Friday you need to know the potatoes are going to be of the highest standard possible at any time of year. I now count Vic as one of my personal friends. His hard work ethic and never in it to make a fast buck has built up Vic Graham’s to what it is now, with Mark doing potato’s and Paul doing the fresh chips. I know Vic is very proud of the work they are both doing and keeping his reputation that has taken many years to build up Vic Graham & Son Ltd, new website will be launching at www.vicgraham. com - Give us a FRY! Call them on 01204 887415

Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • November 2020

Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • November 2020

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Howard’s Way! Chip Shed try Babylon Potatoes from Agrico!

By Austen Dack

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C

ambridgeshire potato merchant Isle of Ely Produce have launched a new platform to promote the great British Chip in association with Agrico.

Its aim will be to carry on the good work it has been promoting via their hugely successful open days, and the ‘Field to Frier’ award.

The Chip Ambassadors will become part of an UK wide group of shop owners and fryers who will promote best practice for potato buying, storing, and of course frying. The chain will also include key growers too like PJ Lee & Sons, and A. L. Lee Farming Company, as IOE looks to cement the relationships they have grown across the whole supply chain over the last twenty years.

An important area where these new ambassadors will be utilised is to sample any significant new varieties that come into the marketplace. With this in mind Agrico have partnered with Isle of Ely Produce to bring two such varieties into the trade initially via our Chip Ambassadors. The two varieties Babylon

Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • November 2020

and Lugano will be sampled at some of these ambassadors to back up the results of early trial successes.

Recently I visited fish and chip gurus Gregg & Caroline Howard at their magnificent Chip Shed restaurant in Bourton on the Water.

Gregg said “We have been associated with Isle of Ely Produce and their potatoes for many years and have them delivered to our shops via our wholesaler.

When we were asked to try a new variety from Agrico, (Babylon) we were only too pleased to do it.”

Oliver Boutwood Isle of Ely Director says. “We have met so many great chip shop owners over the years, all who have brilliant knowledge of what it takes to choose, store and of course fry a potato.

We have supplied enough potatoes during that time to serve over 600 million portions of chips. This new scheme will give us even more information across the UK, that we can use to make sure we have the right variety in supply at all times.”

It was great to visit the Chip Shed team

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and see their set up and enthusiasm first-hand. To have Chip Ambassadors like Gregg trying samples and giving us valuable feedback is valuable for the whole industry.

Babylon offers the customer outstanding frying and eating qualities that challenge Agria, whilst Lugano offers a sustainable future for the grower in the fight against potato cyst nematode (PCN), while producing excellent frying and eating quality for the customer.”

Gregg said of Babylon “It was a clean big and bold sample, with easy preparation.

They fried very well in the pan and held up in the chip box too. Our customers enjoy a rich coloured chip and we are looking forward to trying some more as they tasted excellent too.”

Alex Moore, Agrico UK Sales Manager said: “Our varieties have made up a large proportion of the potatoes supplied to the chip shop sector over the years. However, previously we have had very little interaction with the shops themselves. We are thrilled to be working closely with the Chip Ambassadors to launch two of our exciting new varieties. As a business we are always trying to breed better tasting and more sustainable potato varieties.

In Babylon and Lugano we have both!

We place a lot of emphasis on product management and this link with the Chip Ambassadors, Isle of Ely and the growers will help us ensure that each area of the supply chain know how to get the best out of Agrico varieties, to give the end customer the best chips they can buy.”

Chip shop owners already signed as Chip Ambassadors for Isle of Ely Produce are Colin Cromer – The Fish Hoose, Kerry Brennan – Golden Union, David Henley – Henley’s, Richard Ord Jr – Colmans, Eric Snaith – Eric’s, Kelly & Tim Barnes – Krispies, Lauren Kellaway – Kellaways, Charlie Collins – Frydales, Fred CapelChez Fred, Matt & Ashley Phillips – Shap Chippy, Malachy Mallon The Dolphin Takeaway, Richard Foster – Fish and Chips at Weston Grove, Emir Hikary – Hiks, Alan Shillingford –

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Shillingfords, Gregg Howard The Chip Shed and Sarah Heward – The Real Food Café.

We will be featuring Babylon and Lugano in the coming months both inprint and online to showcase their merits to the fish and chip industry. We will also invite you to taste them at the open day at the farm at our next open day.

Email austen@isleofely.co.uk if you too would like to become a Chip Ambassador and try Babylon and Lugano for yourselves.

Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • November 2020

Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • November 2020

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MIAMI NICE! Award-Winning British Chef Justin Brown Opens “The Chippy” at Balan’s From Miami Living Magazine

A

top Miami restaurant recently offered an eight-week tenure to a top British Chef, to showcase his fish and chips & more.

Award-winning British Chef Justin Brown recently introduced “The Chippy” pop-up at Balan’s Bar & Brasserie in Mary Brickell Village, serving a hand-crafted selection of classic English dishes that quenched the palate of those craving an authentic menu of home-cooked cuisine that goes well beyond the bangers.

Classic Fish and Chips is Chef Brown’s signature dish (we previously reported from his Amsterdam pop up) , recreated from his own recipe, and cooked with a homemade beer batter and served with lemon and fries—offering a choice of either Haddock or

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Cod—both made to melt in your mouth and remind you of your last visit to a British fish and chips shop. He served local Wynwood Beer Battered Fish wrapped in newspaper, authentic homemade chips using the best quality Idaho Potatoes, and a squeeze of tangy lemon for that essential aftertaste.

Additional menu items under the Meat & Chips option, included Battered Proper Pork Sausage, Battered Bell & Evens Chicken Strips, or an 8oz Wagyu Cheeseburger Salad, served with tomato and red onion.

All main dishes, whether fish or meat, came with a choice of home-made sides or garnishes, including curry sauce, gravy, tartare sauce, mushy peas, Sarson’s Malt Vinegar and/or pickled egg. Homemade British desserts included Battered Mars Bar, Battered Snickers or Sticky Toffee Pudding with Toffee Sauce—one of England’s oldest and most traditional “puddings.”

“After arriving in Miami at the beginning of the year, I made it my mission to search for the very best local vendors to use for my own Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • November 2020

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menu of classic British favourites,” says Chef Brown. “The city has a wealth of excellent suppliers I’ve had the privilege of getting to know, and my discovery in the quality of fish and produce encouraged me to create an even broader selection beyond my signature fish and chips. The Chippy was originally a concept created in Amsterdam that has become a huge success, and I believe Miami also has an appetite for something genuine and unique from England.”

Chef Brown relocated to Miami after spending more than 15 years at the helm of some of the leading restaurants in the UK and Europe, working alongside today’s most iconic personalities of the culinary world including Jamie Oliver and Robert Clayton.

He realized that South Florida’s burgeoning culinary scene was an opportunity to infuse his own style of contemporary and upscale English cooking into a region that is historically unfamiliar with modern-day British cuisine.

The Chippy pop-up at Balan’s Bar & Brasserie was located at 901 South Miami Ave in Mary Brickell Village and offered pick-up or Uber Eats delivery in Brickell from Wednesday to Sunday between 4:00pm and 10:00pm. Follow @thechippymiami and for further information or to place an online order, visit www.thechippy-restaurant.com.

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Update from Justin This Sunday October 4th marks 2 months at Balans in Brickell and the end of our Pop Up. We will be using the rest of 2020 to look for a permanent home so we can take The Chippy to the next level, expand and perfect our Menu with more British Classics.

In the meantime we would like to take this opportunity to thank each and every one of you for making The Chippy such a huge success and we also thank you for the continued support over the past few months. A special thanks also goes to Balans for teaming up and allowing us to run this Pop Up over the past 2 months in Brickell.

The Chippy will be back bigger and better so watch this space and keep an eye out on social media and online for regular updates.

Many thanks Justin Brown Chef www.thechippy-restaurant.com

Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • November 2020

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CODGratulations!

National Fish & Chip Day is seen by 50m people!

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espite the pandemic this year’s recent National Fish and Chip Day, has been deemed a success. The media numbers are in with a total reach of nearly 50 million people with a media value of around £1.5 million, team fish and chips once again came out clear winners.

Despite this PR success plenty of questions are still asked about the day, and NEODA have looked to answer most of them below.

Who runs National Fish & Chip Day?

Mitchell Potatoes (Estab 1883) is proud to be one of the UK’s longest established potato merchants, a record built on quality and reliability.

We serve many of the UK’s best fish and chip shops

The National Edible Oil Distributors’ Association (NEODA) runs National Fish and Chip Day. The National Edible Oil Distributors’ Association is a non-profit organisation established in 1947 and its members include edible oil and fats refiners, processors, distributors, and waste oil collectors.

It also covers manufacturers and suppliers of non-oil products (including batter mix, sausages, packaging, and potato preservatives) and other industry bodies.

CONSISTENT QUALITY:

What do NEODA get out of it?

(S,Yorks, N,Yorks, Notts)

07703 263033 (Garry) (E,Yorks, N,Yorks, W,Yorks)

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THE HOME OF QUALITY CHIPPING POTATOES!

Our large supplier base and vigilant quality control helps provide consistent quality all year round.

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01926 633323

www.mitchells-potatoes.co.uk info@mitchells-potatoes.co.uk mitchellspotatoes

NEODA members already have excellent relationships within the industry and this day helps to consolidate and further build on these.

It’s a feel-good-day that everybody loves working on and lots of NEODA members get fully behind the day by providing monetary support, prizes and the services of their respective staff to travel around the country engaging with fish and chip shops, often spending the day with them helping out in the shop.

@mitchellpots 40 Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • November 2020 @mitchellpots

Why should I get involved and What is in it for me?

Supporting National Fish and Chip Day doesn’t have to be time consuming or expensive. By taking part you are joining in an awareness day that generates huge media coverage in both the build-up to the day and on the day itself. Social media is a cheap but fantastic way to promote your business to both existing customers and also attract new customers to your shop or restaurant.

NEODA help you as much as possible to celebrate this awareness day and we have created a core set of promotional support materials (which are downloadable from the NEODA website –www. nationalfishandchipday.org.uk Do I have to run a competition or give things away?

Absolutely not!

This is not the intention and we stress year-on-year that you could do as little as putting up a few balloons in your shop and run a small raffle prize in the build up to the day if you wish. Lots of shops do nothing but still have a successful day because of the PR generated around the day. Lots of shops have reported that National Fish and Chip Day is their most successful trading day of the year, even superseding Good Friday. With a few small ideas and a lot of enthusiasm, you can create a real buzz.

How can I decorate my shop?

Through the National Fish and Chip Day website we sell t-shirts and caps

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for shop staff and bunting for the shop. These items are all undated so can be used year after year. Our website allows you to download posters for the shop and lots of the industry’s distributors give away promotional posters to shops in the weeks leading up to National Fish and Chip Day. Balloons and unbranded bunting can be purchased cheaply online.

Why is it on a Friday?

Friday is synonymous with fish and chips. The thinking behind National Fish and Chip Day is to try to actively encourage people who either don’t buy, or have stopped buying, fish and chips to reconsider purchasing them again.

Why is National Fish and Chip Day in June when potatoes are often not at their best quality?

It was initially decided that National Fish and Chip Day would take place on the first Friday in June in order to spread out throughout the year the various industry events or campaigns related to fish and chips – including the National Fish & Chip Awards run by Seafish, the annual Chippy Chat Ball and the NFFF Annual Ball.

Why is it a day not a week?

National Fish and Chip Day was inaugurated the year after the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (formerly The Potato Council) disbanded their annual Chip Week promotional initiative. Although consideration was given to the event being a weeklong, this was considered too long and would cause many shops to feel too much pressure in trying to publicise the campaign for a week and keep up the momentum. However, there is nothing wrong with shops creating the buzz all week leading up to the Friday of National Fish and Chip Day. How is NF&CD funded and what is this money spent on?

National Fish and Chip Day is funded in the main

by Seafish, with additional support provided via the generosity of industry partners such as FASFA and the NEODA membership (Including £1,000 from Chippy Chat/Isle of Ely produce).

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Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • November 2020

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Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • November 2020

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OrChesteral Manoeuvres in the Mark!

Chester’s Fish and Chips is investing a million pounds in a new restaurant in Markham Vale

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he owners of a well-known Derbyshire restaurant have now revealed plans for a second location, offering a takeaway and drive-thru service.

Plans have been put forward for the new eatery from the owners of Chester’s Fish and Chips restaurant, which is based in Sheffield Road, Chesterfield.

The new premises will be located on the Markham Vale services site at junction 29A of the M1, opposite McDonalds and adjacent to Starbucks.

The new investment will cost more than £1 million and will create more than 30 jobs.

Set to open in spring 2021, the new venue will offer a seaside-themed restaurant and a takeaway counter as well as a separate drivethrough lane.

Chris Ioannides, owner of Chesters, said: “We are excited to announce the opening of a second restaurant for Chesters, which will serve all our best-known dishes.

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“We will continue to support the local community and charities like we always strive to and give back something to Chesterfield and the surrounding areas.

“We’d like to thank all our loyal customers for their support, and we look forward to meeting new customers at our new Markham Vale location.”

The announcement comes after a very busy period for the team thanks to the Government’s recent Eat Out to Help Out scheme.

On their busiest day, Chesters had to turn away more than 196 bookings and in just one day served 756 people.

Thousands of customers visited throughout August, and the owners decided to extend the scheme, offering 20% of bills, including alcohol, every Monday to Thursday throughout September.

Have you plans for another shop/refurb?

Email austen@chippychat.co.uk

Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • November 2020

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AWESAM! Oceans 52 transformed with help from Hewigo (and Tv star!)

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hen Sam relocated from London looking for a new challenge, he bought a traditional chip shop and restaurant, Oceans 52 in Epworth, Lincolnshire. Gathering the knowledge he needed through NFFF courses as well as working alongside award winners in the industry, he set about totally revamping the business.

The shop was completely redesigned, but in a style sympathetic to the grade 2 listed building. At the centre was a new 3-Pan Hewigo High Efficiency range.

“Hewigo not only supplied a marvellous range but have been helpful in our development “says Sam. “Right from the start the suggestions they made were spot on and every promise was kept. The High Efficiency is delivering savings all the time.”

Almost to the day that Oceans 52 reopened the nation went into lockdown.

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However, the restrictions placed by Covid-19 proved not to be a huge stumbling block. “Naturally we had to close the restaurant but remained open on the takeaway and adapted with the installation of ‘Click and Collect ‘. “I can see this becoming a very important part of our business.” adds Sam, who is helped in the business by wife Suky and 6 staff.

Oceans 52 reputation is growing quickly with regular customers coming from further afield and is now recognised as one of the best in the Isle of Axholme.

Recently they had tv and West End star Sheridan Smith and her crew filming with them in their shop.

Phillip Purkiss MD of Hewigo(UK) says “It is no accident that Oceans 52 has become such an immediate success. Sam has listened to respected figures in the trade and has combined this with his own business knowhow and new ideas.”

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Chippy Chat & Fast Food Magazine • November 2020

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