Who Will Claim the 2024 Quality Accreditation Champion Award?

The National Fish & Chip Awards, renowned as one of the most prestigious events in the fish and chip industry, has unveiled the finalists for the highly anticipated Quality Accreditation Champion award. This prestigious accolade honours businesses that maintain exceptional standards and strive for continual improvement, with the winners recognised for their excellence in product quality, hygiene, and overall operations.

The award is open to all establishments that have achieved the National Federation of Fish Friers’ (NFFF) Quality Accreditation, a rigorous scheme in partnership with Sarson’s, the UK’s number one vinegar. The scheme is designed to spotlight fish and chip shops that go the extra mile to uphold high standards across multiple areas, including food quality, environmental responsibility, and customer satisfaction.

Businesses that meet the criteria are awarded a ‘Big Q’ Quality Accreditation sign, assuring customers of the top-tier fish and chips served in a clean, safe, and hygienic environment. This distinction not only elevates the reputation of the businesses but also reinforces their commitment to quality in an increasingly competitive market.

This year’s finalists are a testament to the power of the Quality Accreditation Scheme in helping businesses transform and thrive. The trio of finalists for the 2024 Quality Accreditation Champion award include:

• Newington Fish Bar, Ramsgate (Kent)

• Harrison’s Fish and Chip Co, Botley (Oxfordshire)

• Scrap Box, York (Yorkshire)

These finalists have demonstrated exemplary use of the accreditation, showing how the scheme has propelled their business practices to new heights. Each of these establishments has leveraged the initiative to enhance various aspects of their operations, achieving remarkable results.

Andrew Crook, president of the NFFF, reflects on the importance of the award, stating, “Whenever a business comes to us to take part in the Quality Accreditation Scheme, it’s an encouraging sign that the sector is engaged and the desire to improve is clear. The Quality Accreditation Champion Award is crucial to the industry. It highlights businesses striving for excellence in all areas—from product sourcing and sustainability to workplace ethics and outstanding foodservice.”

Crook further emphasised the importance of pushing for high standards across the board, asserting that the award recognises not just culinary skills but also the business’s commitment to integrity and operational excellence.

The awards ceremony, set for 26th February at the Park Plaza Westminster Bridge, will see the successor to 2024’s winner, French’s Fish Shop from Norfolk, crowned. As anticipation builds, these three finalists await to see if they will be the next to take home the prestigious title of Quality Accreditation Champion.

The award is sponsored by Sarson’s and its parent company Mizkan, which is known globally for producing chutneys, relishes, pickled vegetables, and vinegars. Anant Mathur, channel controller at Mizkan, is proud to support the award: “At Sarson’s, we share the uncompromising importance you place on quality flavours for your customers. As a craft-brewed vinegar maker, we proudly sponsor the NFFF Quality Accreditation Champion Award this year. For fish and chip shops who value quality, Sarson’s is the only vinegar for you.”

As the finalists prepare to compete for the coveted title, their success underscores the importance of maintaining high standards and fostering a culture of improvement within the fish and chip industry.