​Episode 131: Inside the Fish and Chip Awards with NFFF Director Josette Foster

In this captivating episode of the Ceres Podcast, Stelios sits down with Josette Foster, the owner of Fish and Chips at Western Grove in Chester, who shares her remarkable journey in the hospitality industry. Having transitioned from a career in education to running a fish and chip shop, Josette offers a unique perspective on the business and the vital role of consistency in achieving success.

Josette begins by recounting how she and her late husband, Richard, ventured into the fish and chip business in 2016. Despite her extensive background as a hospitality tutor and assistant principal, the day-to-day operations of running a shop were challenging, physically and mentally. But through perseverance and a passion for quality, Josette and her team turned Fish and Chips at Western Grove into an award-winning establishment.

A major focus of the conversation is Josette’s involvement with the National Federation of Fish Friers (NFFF), where she has taken on a key role in organising the industry’s prestigious awards. Josette explains how the NFFF picked up the mantle after the Seafish Awards were discontinued, ensuring that fish and chip shops continue to have a platform to showcase their skills and dedication. She highlights the importance of maintaining the legacy of the awards while introducing fresh elements to keep it exciting and relevant.

One key change discussed is the shift from traditional mystery shopping to a Zoom-based judging process, designed to be more cost-effective and environmentally friendly. Josette praises this method for allowing judges to see the true day-to-day operations of shops, emphasising that it’s a modern and fair approach.

The episode touches on the challenges of adapting to new processes, particularly with the introduction of a public vote element. Josette discusses the impact of industry sponsorships and the growing demand for innovation in the face of financial constraints. Despite some hurdles, Josette remains optimistic about the future of the awards and the industry.

Finally, Stelios and Josette explore the importance of fostering young talent, particularly through the Young Fish Frier of the Year award, which was paused but is set to return. Josette’s passion for nurturing the next generation of fish friers shines through, reinforcing her belief in the power of these awards to elevate the industry.

Overall, this episode is a must-listen for anyone in the hospitality sector, offering valuable insights into the world of fish and chips, industry awards, and the importance of perseverance and innovation in business.