Episode 15 - Secrets Behind Krispies Success: A Journey Through Passion and Hard Work
Posted by Emma on 30th May 2019
Krispies, an award-winning fish and chip shop in Exmouth, shared their remarkable journey on a recent episode of The Ceres Podcast. Hosted by Stelios, this episode offered an intimate look at how Tim and Kelly Barnes turned a struggling business into a celebrated culinary success story. The engaging conversation was a mix of laughter, hard truths, and inspiring moments, making it a must-listen for anyone in the food industry or small business world.
Tim and Kelly’s story began with a bold leap into the unknown, buying their first chip shop at a young age. Despite initial struggles, including a poorly located shop in Dawlish, their determination never wavered. When they took over Krispies in 1999, they knew hard work and bold decisions would be their only way forward. Their journey wasn’t without challenges—the early years were filled with long hours, financial strain, and learning the ropes of an unpredictable industry. Yet, they embraced every hurdle as a stepping stone to success.
A standout moment in the podcast is when Kelly shares the whirlwind romance that brought her and Tim together, reflecting the same spontaneity and risk-taking that would later define their business decisions. From moving in together within months of meeting to leveraging family support for their first mortgage, their story is as much about personal grit as professional growth.
One of the most revealing parts of the conversation is their candid discussion about the importance of focus and simplification in their business. After inheriting a menu cluttered with kebabs, pizzas, and southern fried chicken, they streamlined operations, dedicating themselves exclusively to fish and chips. Tim passionately shared his philosophy: “I want to do one thing really well, not lots of things, just okay.” This decision proved pivotal, allowing them to perfect their craft and build a loyal customer base.
The episode also delves into their innovative approach to battered chips, a product that has become a signature offering. Despite its regional origins in Wolverhampton, Tim and Kelly embraced the dish and turned it into a branded sensation in Exmouth. Their dedication to quality, from sourcing the best ingredients to refining their batter recipe with natural colours, exemplifies their commitment to excellence.
The pair’s authenticity shines throughout the episode, particularly when discussing the emotional toll of running a family business. Kelly recounts the challenges of balancing parenthood with their demanding schedules, while Tim opens up about adapting to new roles as their business grows. Their honesty, humour, and warmth make their story relatable and deeply human.
The highlight of their journey is undoubtedly winning the Independent Fish and Chip Shop of the Year title. The road to this accolade was far from easy—countless late nights, meticulous planning, and a commitment to constant improvement. Their reflections on the awards process reveal a blend of humility and determination that defines their approach to life and business.
This episode of The Ceres Podcast isn’t just a story about fish and chips; it’s a masterclass in resilience, adaptability, and passion. Whether you’re a small business owner, a food industry professional, or a fan of inspiring stories, this episode offers valuable insights and plenty of food for thought.
Don’t miss this compelling conversation—listen to the full episode now on Apple Podcasts or your favourite podcast platform. Be sure to subscribe to The Ceres Podcast for more inspiring stories and practical advice from industry leaders.