Finney’s Named the UKs Most Sustainable Operator

A popular Welsh fish and chip operator has been crowned the winner of the Environment & Sustainable Business Award at this year’s National Fish & Chip Awards. Finney’s in Benllech, Anglesey, triumphed over finalists Pisces in Wirral and Two Gate Fisheries in Barnsley, securing the top prize for its outstanding commitment to responsible sourcing and sustainable business practices.

Since opening its doors 16 years ago, Finney’s has been proactive in implementing sustainable practices at its shop. Now, almost two decades later, the Welsh fish and chip business places sustainability at the heart of its operations. Demonstrating its commitment to the environment, Finney’s has phased out all single-use plastics and has introduced a popular cash back scheme for customers who reuse old bags when buying from their shop. A central part of Finney’s sustainability approach is also reflected in the products they source, ensuring the fish they serve is responsibly caught.

For the 3^rd year, Seafood from Norway has proudly sponsored the Environment & Sustainable Business Award, highlighting Norway’s commitment to sustainability in the fish and chip industry. To celebrate Finney’s achievement, this summer, Seafood from Norway will host them – along with all other category winners – on a study trip to Sortland, Northern Norway, there, they will experience first-hand the country’s leading approach to sustainable fishing and follow the journey of premium-quality cod and haddock from ocean to plate.

During an immersive three-day itinerary, Finney’s will explore Norway’s seafood industry through a range of activities. They’ll also gain insights into Norway’s long-term stock management, while meeting with the experts behind the country’s advanced fishing fleets and seafood supply chain. A standout moment of the trip will be a day spent aboard the Langøy, one of Norway’s frozen-at-sea vessels, owned by Prestfjord, part of the Holmøy Group.

Finney’s were presented with the award by Norwegian Ambassador to the UK HE Tore Hattrem, who highlighted the long-standing seafood relationship between Norway and the UK and expressed gratitude to the UK’s fish and chip distributers for the strides they are making with sustainable practices.

Mike and Carol, owners of Finney’s said:

“Sustainability has always been a top priority for us, and it’s something we’ve continued to evolve at our shop since day one. With both the environment and the future of fish and chips in mind, we’ve embraced green innovations as soon as they’ve become available. From switching to sustainable packaging and eco-friendly cleaning products to using the latest energy-efficient technologies in our kitchen, we believe that small, thoughtful changes every day can make a big difference over time. We’re incredibly excited and honoured to be recognised in this category and can’t wait to represent Finney’s in Norway this summer!”

On Finney’s win, Andrew Crook, president of the National Federation of Fish Friers (NFFF), comments:

“Running a fish and chip shop today means thinking beyond just great food; it’s about making responsible choices that protect the future of our industry. Finney’s has shown real leadership in this area, going above and beyond to embed sustainability into their business.

“We’re delighted to work together with Seafood from Norway for the Environmental and Sustainable Business award – a category that celebrates businesses and individuals committed to implementing sustainable practices in the fish and chip industry.”

Victoria Braathen, UK Director of the Norwegian Seafood Council, representing Seafood from Norway, says:

“It’s inspiring to see the dedication Finney’s  has towards implementing sustainable business practices, and on behalf of Seafood from Norway, I extend our heartfelt congratulations. For over a decade, Seafood from Norway has collaborated with the UK’s fish and chip champions, celebrating the craftsmanship and dedication of operators who excel in delivering this iconic British dish.

“As category sponsor, we couldn’t be more proud to see sustainability take centre stage for such a talented operator – especially as responsible practices in the fish and chip industry become increasingly important. We look forward to welcoming Finney’s and all the winners to Norway, where they’ll see first-hand the lengths Norway goes to uphold responsible sourcing and maintain the highest quality at every stage.”