​Episode 17 - Lessons from Chesterford Group's James Lipscombe

What makes a business thrive for nearly a century? This is precisely the question explored in the latest episode of The Ceres Podcast, where Stelios welcomes James Lipscombe, Managing Director of the Chesterford Group. As the visionary leader of 40 fish and chip shops under the brands Fish and Chicken, Churchill's, and Bankers, James shares a wealth of insights into running a family business, staying competitive in a crowded market, and balancing tradition with innovation.

The episode is a deep dive into the history of the Chesterford Group, starting from James's great-grandfather, who transitioned from coal mining to owning a fish and chip shop in Essex in the 1920s. This generational passion for the industry shines through as James recounts his journey from being a "chip boy" in his teens to leading one of the UK's largest fish and chip operations. It's a touching tale of legacy and hard work, punctuated by heartfelt anecdotes, like James's childhood trips to the shops with his father—a reminder of how deeply personal the business remains.

But this episode isn't just about nostalgia. James and Stelios tackle pressing challenges facing the food industry, including the rise of delivery aggregators like Just Eat and Deliveroo. James provides a candid look at how these platforms impact profitability while offering opportunities to evolve. His thoughts on embracing technology and meeting consumer demands for convenience are eye-opening, especially for small business owners navigating similar challenges.

One standout moment is James's explanation of the company's values, distilled into their mission of "defending the future of fish and chips." It's a rallying cry for profitability and preserving a beloved British tradition in an era of fast-changing consumer habits. James reveals how they involve their team in defining these values, fostering a sense of ownership and pride among their 550 employees—a leadership lesson for any industry.

Another fascinating segment covers menu innovation. James explains the delicate balance of honouring tradition while catering to modern tastes, from introducing halloumi burgers to exploring meat-free options. His approach to testing new items, retiring under performers, and maintaining quality is a masterclass in adapting without compromising brand identity.

Perhaps the most inspiring aspect of the episode is James's unwavering commitment to his staff. He shares how the Chesterford Group promotes from within, offering genuine career growth opportunities. James believes this culture of respect and empowerment sets the business apart. "You can't just run a company from the top; you've got to be in the trenches," he says, describing his habit of working in the shops every Friday.

The conversation also veers into the future of dining, with James predicting the rise of delivery and dark kitchens while emphasising the importance of creating memorable in-person experiences. His reflections on the evolving role of fish and chips in the UK's culinary landscape are thought-provoking, especially for food industry professionals.

With its blend of heartfelt storytelling, actionable insights, and industry expertise, this episode of The Ceres Podcast is a must-listen for anyone in the food business, from independent shop owners to aspiring entrepreneurs. James Lipscombe's passion and pragmatism make this an episode that resonates beyond the world of fish and chips.