#205 - Building a Business & Legacy: The Lee Family’s Fish & Chips Journey
Posted by Emily on 12th Mar 2025 Reading Time:
In the latest episode of The Ceres Podcast, host Mark Petrou sits down with the Lee family—Shane, John Henry, and Sonny—to discuss their fish and chip empire, the evolution of the industry, and the role of digital marketing in modern business success. This episode is a must-listen for hospitality entrepreneurs, fish and chip shop owners, and anyone fascinated by the blend of tradition and innovation in food service.
A Story Rooted in Tradition
Shane Lee's journey in fish and chips began in 1979, at just 14 years old, when he took his first job as a "spud boy." Over the years, he worked his way up, gaining hands-on experience in the trade. He shares anecdotes about learning the craft, the long hours, and the values instilled in him by early mentors like Arthur King, who ran a chain of thriving fish and chip shops. Shane's determination eventually led him to buy his first shop in 1988, setting the foundation for what would become a multi-shop family business.
One of the most engaging moments in the episode is Shane's reflection on his early years—working long shifts, earning his first managerial role, and the humorous yet painful memory of receiving the cane for skipping school to land his first fish and chip job. His grit and work ethic shaped his career and his approach to raising the next generation of entrepreneurs within his family.
A Multi-Generational Success Story
John Henry Lee was quite literally born into the business, living above a fish and chip shop and frying his first piece of fish at 11 years old. His story mirrors his father's in many ways, with hands-on experience leading to managerial roles and, eventually, ownership. However, where Shane had to build from the ground up, John Henry entered a growing operation, helping to expand the business with strategic investments and modernised operations.
The episode also touches on succession planning, a challenge many family-run businesses face. As Mark asks Shane, "Have the boys ever had to tell you to step back and let them lead?" The response is refreshingly honest—while there hasn't been a dramatic "passing of the torch" moment, the business now operates as a true partnership, with each member playing a crucial role.
Digital Innovation in Fish & Chips
Sonny Lee brings a fresh perspective to the business, leading the charge on digital marketing. His expertise in social media has transformed their customer engagement, with viral TikTok videos and strategic Facebook campaigns driving footfall. The family's first nomination for a national Digital Marketing Award was a testament to their success in this space.
One standout moment from the episode is Sonny's explanation of their predict-the-score competition during major football tournaments.
Customers guessed match scores for a chance to win free meals, turning a simple marketing idea into a viral engagement tool that brought in thousands of new followers. Another clever strategy was the use of in-shop advertising screens, where local businesses pay to feature their ads—a simple yet highly effective revenue stream.
The Secret to Long-Term Business Growth
Beyond marketing, the Lees also discuss their innovative approach to business expansion. Their partnership model allows dedicated employees to eventually own a share of the business, creating a pathway to ownership without requiring upfront capital. This strategy has helped them retain top talent while growing their brand.
Not all ventures have been smooth sailing. They share a candid story of a partnership that didn't work out due to differences in business approach. But instead of seeing it as a failure, they took it as a lesson in the importance of choosing the right people and maintaining high standards.
Why You Should Listen to This Episode
This conversation is packed with wisdom for anyone in the hospitality sector. From the hard-won lessons of running multiple locations to adapting to the digital age, The Ceres Podcast continues to deliver invaluable insights for business owners.
Whether you're just starting in the industry or looking to modernise your operations, Episode 205 offers a masterclass in resilience, innovation, and the enduring power of great fish and chips.
Listen to the full episode now on Apple Podcasts and wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe to The Ceres Podcast for more expert insights into the world of fish and chips and hospitality business success.