T.Quality Celebrates the Retirement of Derek Dews After Over 50 Years in the Fish and Chip Industry

After an incredible career spanning more than five decades, Derek Dews, Senior Regional Sales Manager at T.Quality, is hanging up his sales bag and heading into a well-earned retirement. Derek, who has been a familiar and much-respected face across the fish and chip industry, leaves behind a huge legacy — and a lot of friends. In recognition of his outstanding contribution, Derek was honoured with the Outstanding Achievement Award at the 2024 National Fish and Chip Awards.

Derek first entered the fish and chip industry straight from school, joining Arnold Grimshaw’s, a Drysalters in Leeds with a history dating back to the 1880s. From those early days, Derek’s passion for the trade and its people was clear. Throughout his 50-year journey, Derek has witnessed the many changes across the trade and has played a key role in helping shops evolve and grow — from the rise of online ordering and improved packaging, to the shift toward more sustainable food offerings and an ever-expanding range of quality food products.

During his time at T.Quality, Derek played a key role in the company’s success in the North of England, leading the Field Sales teams across six Northern depots. Known for his product knowledge, customer focus, and unwavering support for colleagues, Derek has been a true ambassador for T.Quality and the fish and chip trade as a whole.

Outside of work, Derek is looking forward to spending more time with his family, particularly his grandson who “certainly keeps him young,” as well as enjoying coastal walks, golf (when the shoulder holds up!), and working on the garden under his wife’s careful guidance.

Sean Savage, Sales and Marketing Director at T.Quality, commented: “Derek is the embodiment of dedication and professionalism. His knowledge, warmth, and passion have made a real difference not only to T.Quality but to the wider fish and chip trade. Winning the Outstanding Achievement Award last year was a fitting recognition of everything he has done. While we are sad to see him retire, we are incredibly grateful for the many years of service, support, and friendship he has given, and we wish him a long and happy retirement.”

Mike Crees, Managing Director of T.Quality, added: “Derek’s impact on T.Quality cannot be overstated. His experience, his customer-first approach, and his absolute commitment to doing the right thing have been an inspiration to everyone around him. Derek leaves behind a strong team and a fantastic legacy, and he should be very proud of everything he has achieved. On behalf of everyone at T.Quality, I’d like to thank Derek for his exceptional service and wish him all the very best for this exciting next chapter.”

Derek’s impact on T.Quality and the wider industry is lasting, and he leaves with the best wishes and heartfelt thanks of all who have had the pleasure of working with him.