It’s that time again when UK and international fish and chip businesses are invited to take part in the industry’s flagship competition, the National Fish & Chip Awards, to determine who the standout operators and individuals will be for 2026.

The National Federation of Fish Friers (NFFF) is organising the 38th annual celebration of the awards, with Seafood from Norway returning as principal sponsor. The event has earned its reputation as the pinnacle of national recognition for industry excellence, motivating participants to hit gold-standard measures.

Run by the industry for the industry, the National Fish & Chip Awards is open to all 10,000+ fish and chip businesses in the UK, as well as overseas. It’s free to enter and an improved application process has been introduced for this year’s hopefuls.

Chippies that believe their takeaway, restaurant or mobile unit could be number one are encouraged to take the leap towards official confirmation. Those aged 25 and under looking to put their skills to the test and develop their craft in a supportive environment – the Drywite Young Fish Frier of the Year prize awaits. There are 10 further categories including the all-new Menu Innovation award and for more details or to submit an entry, visit https://thefishandchipawards.com/.

The judging process is led by prominent sector experts, and each category has its own set of rounds, with shortlisted hopefuls required to complete a combination of interviews, tasks, skills tests, inspections and the make-or-break taste-testing portion of the assessment which happens during a mystery visit.

Deep diving into each contender’s eatery is what further sets the awards apart. Andrew Crook, president of the NFFF, explains more: “The National Fish & Chip Awards’ selection committee does its due diligence, and no stone is left unturned when it comes to appraising the business, its operations and food offer. This provides such an invaluable critique for business owners which commends peak performance as well as addressing areas to improve further.”

He continues: “There’s a shared connection and unique rapport in the industry and whenever we can celebrate and reinvigorate businesses, we will do so. At the request of the fish and chip community we’ve revised the entry requirements so we’re looking forward to receiving many more first-time entrants along with those who are trying again to rise to the top.

“Our towns and cities need to stay filled with great places to eat the beloved dish of the UK and ultimately the awards are designed to inspire strategies that help businesses strengthen in all areas and achieve longevity.”

The public, for the first-time ever, will also be able to get involved in the search for the greatest providers of the British classic. Fish and chip fans can head to https://thefishandchipawards.com/ and until Monday 7 July send in the name of a favourite hot spot they’d like to see entering the 2026 competition. All recommended businesses will be notified that a customer has encouraged them to give the awards a shot.

Andrew adds: “Bringing the public into the mix adds a refreshing dynamic and without customers there’s no success, so this is the nation’s chance to help steer their local chippy towards national-level endorsement – let’s get this thing going!”

All eyes are on this year’s awards and Seafood from Norway’s Victoria Braathen, UK Director of the Norwegian Seafood Council, is excited for the potential to come.
“As we proudly return as principal sponsor of the 2026 National Fish & Chip Awards, Seafood from Norway continues to honour the deep-rooted connection between our sustainably sourced seafood and the UK’s most iconic dish.

“This partnership is more than a sponsorship — it’s a celebration of the people and businesses who bring fish and chips to life with passion, care, and commitment to quality. On behalf of the Norwegian seafood industry, we’re proud to support the next generation of talent and the hardworking operators who uphold this cherished tradition across the UK.”

The launch took place at Takeaway of the Year 2025 winner Yarm Road’s brand-new restaurant in Darlington, County Durham, which is set to open on, or close, to 14 July. Director-manager Will Burrell speaks of the success the business has achieved in the four months since earning the acclaimed title: “It’s hard to put in the words the impact that winning Takeaway of the Year has had on our business. The week following our win, when the word had gone out, our trade went through the roof.

“Having been operating for eight years, we thought we had achieved peak trade, but we couldn’t have been more wrong. Our trade increased by 30% and has continued on this trajectory.”

“We have customers travelling from all over the country to try our fish and chips – we’ve even had some overseas travellers! Our amazing team has thrived under the circumstances and has risen to the challenge as we knew they would. It doesn’t matter how busy we get; they just take it in their stride and get the job done with big smiles on their faces. The win was such a morale boost for the guys – their hard work had paid off.”

Will continues: “For anyone wishing to enter the awards, just do it, seriously! We’re just a humble little chippy with a passion for what we do. Winning seemed impossible, but if we can do it, with the right mindset and drive, anyone can! Enter the awards, and if you don’t win, use your feedback to come back stronger. It’s such an amazing and rewarding process and our business really flourished throughout.”

Speaking about what diners can expect from the new restaurant, which is located next door to the takeaway, he says: “With our upcoming restaurant, our mantra is to perfect the basics – this has served us so well in the takeaway. From sourcing the very best products and materials, to great customer service and excellent fish frying, we can guarantee the ultimate fish and chip experience. We are sticking to what we know – traditional fish and chips!”

Shortlisted businesses will be announced from September and the ceremony to reveal the winners will take place in February in London.

For more information and bits on the National Fish & Chip Awards, please visit: www.thefishandchipawards.com.