​Episode 177 - Adrian Tweedale’s Fish & Chip Journey

Adrian Tweedale, owner of the Elite Fish & Chip chain, joined Mark Petrou for an insightful conversation on the Ceres Podcast. Reflecting on his journey in the industry, Adrian shared stories that spanned decades, revealing how his family’s fish and chip business, which began in 1972, grew to become an iconic name in the UK. He recalled the early days in Huddersfield, where his father, originally a herdsman, transitioned into the world of fish and chips by purchasing a local shop. It was an actual family effort, with Adrian and his siblings all contributing to the business from a young age.

Adrian emphasised the strong work ethic ingrained in him by his parents, highlighting how their simple, hardworking nature laid the foundation for his success. Winning the Fish & Chip Shop of the Year in 1992 was a pivotal moment that propelled the business to new heights, leading to immense media attention, including TV appearances and a quadrupling of the shop’s turnover.

The episode also delved into Adrian’s philosophy on staying grounded, adapting to change, and maintaining quality in every aspect of his business. He shared valuable insights into the role of industry figures like Bill Shaw in revolutionising the fish and chip sector, noting how Bill’s marketing strategies helped his business thrive in a small village like Ruskington.

Listeners will also hear about Adrian’s later ventures, including opening multiple locations and the challenges of expanding while maintaining the high standards that made his first shop successful. Despite the evolution of the business, Adrian remains a hands-on operator who is passionate about the industry and deeply connected to the community.

The podcast offers a fascinating glimpse into the past, filled with nostalgic reflections on how fish and chips have evolved. Adrian’s stories are not only about business but about creating lasting memories for customers, some of whom still remember visiting his shop as children.