Fish and Chips on the increase

Sales in Fish and Chip restaurants are up for the first time in over five years, according to a recent survey.

In the first quarter of 2008, the number of people going to fast-food restaurants rose by 3.2 per cent, with Fish and Chips becoming a popular way for people to treat themselves without breaking the bank.

Amongst all the doom and gloom of today’s financial climate, the popular British industry is thriving by using new innovative ways to turn a profit.

With many alternative fast food restaurants in the area offering cheaper food often late into the night, traditional ‘chippies’ such as ‘Fish & Chips’ in Preston have introduced new ideas to remain competitive.

"It is important that all businesses are looking at ways to make money without compromising the quality of service. We all have to work a bit harder and smarter to keep afloat.”

Chris Simpson, the owner of the City centre outlet, now opens the shop between 2 and 4am in an attempt to catch the people heading home after a night out. And so far it’s working, with the manager claiming an increase in custom and profits since the move was brought in.

“Without doubt the early hours of the morning are one of our busiest times. Around 200 people leave the pub directly opposite, and they are coming here for chips rather than the new fast-food restaurants which are open at these hours.”

And the owner also predicted that without changing, many similar businesses will struggle to compete in what is a competitive industry.

“At the moment I think it is important that all businesses are looking at ways to make money without compromising the quality of the service offered. With rising costs and plenty of competition, we all have to work a bit harder and smarter to keep afloat.”

Upmarket restaurant John Kay’s ‘Fish ‘n’ Chips’ has faced a different problem. With prices starting at £5.95 for the traditional meal, competing with conventional fish and chip restaurants has been a challenge.

With people having less to spend on nights out and luxury items, restaurants such as Kay’s which offer premium quality produce at higher prices might have been expected to suffer.

"The credit crunch is affecting what people can spend, but people still want to treat themselves"

However, floor manager Erphelia Chambers feels that there is still a distinct market for the restaurant, and by taking a few steps they have ensured the business continues to offer a unique service to customers.

“We have had to start extra advertising, leaflets and billboards for example, but I don’t think it is a major problem. People see that we are different to the average ‘chippy’ on the street, offering not just fresh, quality food, but the atmosphere of a restaurant.

“We haven’t had to lower prices. Obviously the credit crunch is affecting what people can spend, but people still want to treat themselves, and in terms of going out, we offer an experience as well as a nutritional, affordable meal.”

The Fish and Chip industry has been a big part of the British economy for years, and against all the odds, the nation’s favourite takeaway has managed to pull through what is a difficult time for all companies. Where many businesses have failed, shop owners are adapting their businesses not massively, but enough to keep themselves not just afloat, but in the best shape for years.