​Rising Stars in Fish and Chips: Meet the Newcomer Finalists of 2025

Five fish and chip shops, established in January 2023, have been selected for the coveted “Newcomer of the Year” award at the National Fish & Chip Awards 2025. These emerging businesses, located across Devon, Uxbridge, Yorkshire, Northern Ireland, and Kent, have distinguished themselves in the UK’s competitive fish and chip industry and earned their place among the country’s best.

Redcloak Fish Bar in Stonehaven was best Newcomer in 2024

Each contender has successfully navigated the initial stages of a thorough selection process led by seasoned industry experts, demonstrating their operational knowledge, commitment to sustainability, and high customer service standards. Additionally, these shops have shown dedication to employee welfare—a key consideration in this year’s judging criteria. The next phase will involve mystery visits to evaluate the quality of their fish and chips, ensuring these newcomers can deliver an exceptional experience for every customer.

The Five Finalists:

1. Alan’s Fish and Chips – Cullompton, Devon

2. Good Cod – Hillingdon, Uxbridge

3. Mackerel Sky – Stamford Bridge, East Riding of Yorkshire

4. Skipper Jacks – Clogher, County Tyrone, Northern Ireland

5. The Anchor – Bexley, London

Andrew Crook, president of the National Federation of Fish Friers (NFFF), which oversees the awards, praises the resilience and ambition of the finalists, noting, “The fish and chip industry is fulfilling and rewarding, but these businesses entered at a time of well-documented challenges, even for established names. Their perseverance and success speak to the energy, innovation, and commitment they bring to the sector.”

This year’s “Newcomer of the Year” award is sponsored by ADM/Frymax, a longstanding supplier to the fish and chip industry. Andrew Marriott, Frymax’s UK Brand & Marketing Manager, reflects on the resilience and adaptability of fish and chip shops over the decades: “Despite recent hurdles, new entrants continue to bring fresh perspectives and ideas, vital to the industry’s future prosperity. We’re thrilled to support these rising stars, who embody the spirit of our nation’s favourite meal.”

The Newcomer of the Year award winner will be unveiled at the National Fish & Chip Industry’semony, set to take place on 26 February 2025 at the Park Plaza Westminster Bridge in London. The event promises an exciting celebration of excellence across the fish and chip sector. Tickets are now available for those looking to join the occasion and celebrate the achievements of this year’s finalists.