Fish and chip fans in Hagley can enjoy their favourite takeaway knowing it is sourced sustainably, following the successful Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) certification of Our Plaice.

The news means the shop is now only the second MSC certified fish and chip shop in the West Midlands. It can now use the MSC ‘blue tick’ label on its hake, haddock and cod, assuring customers that the fish has been responsibly caught using sustainable methods. 

To set the celebratory mood for receiving their award today from the MSC’s George Clark, the shop has been decorated and will be offering free sustainable fish goujons to their customers. 

Open since 1969, Our Plaice is owned by Caroline Howard and husband Gregg Howard, who is also president of the National Federation of Fish Friers (NFFF). Along with manager, James Houlston, the team dedicates much of its time helping fellow fryers all around the world. Fish and chip shop staff from Paris, Iceland and Japan have been trained on Our Plaice premises and the team even recently travelled to Tokyo to help open Japan’s first authentic British fish and chip shop.

James explains what the news means to the restaurant, "It’s really important to us that our customers know we’re an ethical business. We’ve always served responsibly sourced, sustainable fish. The MSC certification gives us recognition for this and helps us stand out from the rest. We can’t wait to celebrate! 

George Clark, UK Commercial Manager at the MSC, adds, "Congratulations to Our Plaice who are doing their bit to protect the future of the oceans by selling MSC certified fish. We hope that their success will encourage other chippies in the West Midlands to follow their lead and offer their customers a sustainable choice.” 

Choosing MSC labelled seafood from fisheries, retailers, brands and restaurants guarantees sustainable, traceable methods and helps protect the life in our oceans for generations to come.