Episode 197: The Grit and Glory of David Henley’s Fish & Chip Journey
Posted by Emma on 30th Jan 2025
In the latest episode of the Ceres Podcast, host Mark Petrou sits down with David Henley of Henley's of Wivenhoe for a captivating conversation about resilience, ambition, and the journey of building a thriving fish and chip business. This is no ordinary tale—it’s a masterclass in determination, strategic thinking, and a love for the industry that has spanned decades.
The episode starts with a humorous nod to a technical mishap leading to a re-recording. But if anything, that only adds to the charm. Right from the start, David’s story grabs your attention as Mark reminisces about their first encounter in the 2006 Fish & Chip Shop of the Year finals. Even then, David stood out as a formidable competitor, exuding confidence and professionalism. What follows is an inspiring journey through the highs and lows of running a business in one of the UK’s most beloved food sectors.
David’s introduction to the hospitality industry was as unconventional as it was telling. A dyslexic child who didn’t thrive in traditional schooling, he found himself drawn to the energy of food service. A chance encounter with Ken, a local chip shop owner, changed everything. What started as a part-time job quickly turned into a passion, and by age 16, David was managing multiple outlets. By 24, he had purchased his shop—a 50-seater fish and chip restaurant in Colchester—despite having no money upfront. His parents’ unwavering belief in him saw them putting their bungalow on the line, an act of faith that would ultimately pay off.
David’s journey wasn’t without its obstacles. Just two years after acquiring his first shop, disaster struck in the form of a devastating fire. What followed was a high-stakes legal battle against two insurance companies and a broker—a fight that nearly broke him but ultimately made him stronger. Through sheer persistence and support from family, staff, and suppliers, he rebuilt and continued on his mission to elevate fish and chips.
If there’s one thing David has in abundance, it’s foresight. He identified a neglected retail space in Wivenhoe when looking for a new location and pursued it relentlessly. After years of battling for planning permission, he acquired the site and secured ownership of the entire parade of shops. In a masterstroke of business acumen, he turned the tables on a landlord who had tried to return on their deal, cementing his place as a sharp operator who always stays one step ahead.
At Henleys of Wivenhoe, David’s commitment to quality and customer experience is second to none. His shop is designed with transparency in mind—customers pick their fish from a display and watch as it is freshly cooked in front of them. There are no hidden prep areas or shortcuts—just great fish and chips prepared with passion. His meticulous approach to layout and workflow means his team can work like a well-oiled machine during peak times, while off-peak hours can be managed efficiently with a minor team.
Despite multiple near-misses, David has never let setbacks define him. His drive to compete in the Fish & Chip Shop of the Year awards stems from more than just winning—it’s about benchmarking excellence, keeping his team motivated, and constantly striving to improve. A past judge, Mark attests to the precision and care that David and his team bring to every aspect of their operation.
Beyond his own business, David is a firm believer in sharing knowledge. As an ambassador for Frymax, he helps other fish and chip operators optimise their oil management practices. He also played a crucial role in creating a community garden near his shop, reinforcing his belief that businesses should contribute to their local area.
David’s personal life has been intertwined with his business journey. His wife Lisa has been his rock, supporting him through thick and thin—including her battle with breast cancer. Her unwavering strength and positive attitude mirror David’s resilience, proving that success is more than just financial gain—it’s about the people who stand by you through every challenge.
Listen to Episode 197 of the Ceres Podcast on your favourite podcast player now!