The nominations have closed and the judges are deliberating, it can only mean one thing… The “Oscars” of the fish and chip industry are almost here! 

Seafish, the authority on seafood, are pleased to announce that the National Fish & Chip Awards 2014 will be taking place on Wednesday 22 January 2014 at the prestigious Lancaster London hotel.

The awards celebrate the diverse talents and skills in the fish frying trade in the UK and showcase the high standards within the industry through a series of established and coveted award categories. Recognising emerging talent and rewarding the contribution made by many fish and chip businesses to local communities and the wider UK seafood industry, the awards really celebrate the crème de la crème of fish and chip businesses. 

Up and down the country shortlisted nominees have been announced in a range of special award categories and as the process draws to a close, it is the last race to the final for all of the finalists. The Independent Takeaway Fish and Chip Shop of the Year Award, which currently has a top ten regional finalist’s shortlist, is the most anticipated award as the winner will be announced as the best fish and chip business in Britain for 2014. 

Paul Williams, CEO of Seafish, said: “The awards recognise both emerging and enduring talent in the fish frying trade. They are also an ideal opportunity for businesses to be recognised for their excellence and get their names firmly on the UK map. Many of our past national and regional finalists have gone on to reap substantial increases in trade as a result of being hailed as an award category winner."

Independent Takeaway Fish and Chip Shop of the Year 2013 national winner, Calum Richardson of The Bay Fish & Chip Shop, said: “Winning the flagship Independent Takeaway Fish and Chip Shop of the Year Award has been a great journey. 

“I would recommend that every fish and chip shop in the UK take part. The turnover of the shop has increased significantly; immediately after winning the UK title, we saw a 100% uplift on the previous year and we’re busier than ever before.

“I am looking forward to checking out who the 2014 winners are on the night!”          

For more information on the National Fish & Chip Awards please visit www.fishandchipawards.com or follow @FishnChipAwards or #FishnChipAwards.