#200: Mark Petrou & Ryan Hughes – How Ryan Hughes Turned Struggle into Success

Winning Fish & Chip Shop of the Year is no small feat, but the journey from a teenage kitchen helper to industry champion for Ryan Hughes is as inspiring as it gets. If you run a fish and chip shop, dream of elevating your business, or simply love hearing stories of resilience and passion, this episode of The Ceres Podcast is a must-listen. Hosted by the ever-insightful Mark Petrou, this conversation dives deep into what it takes to succeed in an industry that’s as demanding as rewarding.

Ryan’s story begins at 14, when he found himself unexpectedly helping out in a kitchen after a chance encounter with a chef who would later become his mentor. That moment set him on a path of dedication, learning, and, ultimately, mastery of the trade. Through years of hands-on experience, working his way up from the back of the kitchen to the front fryer, he developed a keen eye for quality and an unstoppable drive for improvement. Even after winning the most prestigious award in the industry, Ryan insists that there’s always room to grow—a mindset that has paid off.

One of the most striking moments in the episode is Ryan’s candid discussion about opening Ship Deck, his own fish and chip shop. Many dream of being their boss, but few truly understand the risks. Ryan shares how he took over a struggling shop, saw its hidden potential, and transformed it from a quiet, underperforming takeaway into a powerhouse of efficiency and quality. He recounts the nerve-wracking opening days when he was so stretched financially that his card was declined at Greggs for a coffee. But instead of backing down, he doubled down on what mattered: great food, exceptional service, and relentless improvement.

Then came COVID-19—a period that proved disastrous for many businesses but, for Ryan, became an unexpected turning point. His quick thinking and bold decision to pivot to a no-contact, drive-through-style service turned his struggling shop into a thriving operation. This episode reveals how much of an impact agility and planning can have in an industry with tight margins and fierce competition. It’s a masterclass in adaptation and resilience.

Beyond the business strategy, Ryan’s story is compelling because of his unwavering passion for the industry. His attention to detail is relentless, from the way he hand-cuts and portions fish to ensure consistency and quality to the fine-tuned customer experience that keeps people coming back. He also doesn’t shy away from the challenges—staffing, supply chain issues, and the pressures of maintaining excellence after winning Fish & Chip Shop of the Year. His honesty about the physical and mental demands of the job makes this podcast episode an invaluable listen for anyone in the trade.

Another standout moment is when Ryan discusses the power of industry awards—not just as a badge of honour but as a marketing tool that can supercharge a business. The moment he lifted the winner’s trophy, everything changed. Trade skyrocketed, queues stretched down the street, and he had to quickly adjust his operations to keep up with demand. It’s a stark reminder that success isn’t just about winning—it’s about being prepared for what comes next. 

Throughout the episode, Mark and Ryan also touch on the broader issues affecting the fish and chip industry, from ingredient costs to customer expectations and the role of organisations like the NFFF in supporting shop owners. There’s even a bit of controversy as they discuss whether Seafish has turned its back on the industry, a topic that’s sure to spark debate.

If you’re looking for inspiration, practical insights, and a bit of banter from two industry veterans, this episode is a must-listen. Whether you’re a seasoned fish fryer or just starting, there’s something in Ryan’s story that will resonate with you. His journey proves that hard work, adaptability, and a commitment to quality can take you from humble beginnings to the top of the industry. 

Ready to hear the full story? Tune into this episode of The Ceres Podcast and find out what it takes to run a champion fish & chip shop. Don’t forget to subscribe for more insights from the industry’s best! ?