The awards, organised by Seafish, are now in their 28th year, and are recognised as one of the most prominent and respected seafood industry events in the UK.
Celebrating the great British tradition of fish and chips, they showcase the best talent, quality and choice offered by fish and chip businesses across the UK.
The awards not only challenge business owners and staff but also put shops on the map, giving them national recognition across the industry and beyond.
Paul Williams, Chief Executive of Seafish, said: “The aim of the awards has always been to showcase the very best fish and chip businesses in the UK whilst setting incredibly high standards for the industry.
“They provide an excellent opportunity for individuals and businesses to put their skills and knowledge to the test, and gain much deserved recognition.
“Many of our past winners and finalists have gone on to reap substantial benefits from entering, including international fame through industry trips overseas, increased shop footfall and turnover and even launching their own products.
“I can’t wait to see this year’s entrants and watch them as they progress through the competition, making their way to the grand finale in London.”
Carlyn Kearney of Frankie’s Fish & Chips, in Brae, Shetland, winner of the 2015 Independent Takeaway Fish and Chip Shop of the Year Award, commented: “Being crowned champion was a huge honour for everyone here at Frankie’s.
“Our success has helped put Shetland on the map and allowed us to showcase our product to fish and chip lovers around the world.
“We’ve had a phenomenal amount of interest in our shop from a wide range of people – we even had two people specifically travel all the way from London just to get a taste of our fish and chips!”
The awards represent a significant PR and marketing opportunity, offering businesses the ability to raise their customer and industry profile and increase turnover.
Previous winners of the Independent Takeaway Fish and Chip Shop of the Year Award have gone on to great success and reported sales increases of up to 100 per cent, and shortlisted businesses will benefit from study trips provided by Seafish.
Prizes are also on offer just for entering the competition, with all businesses who submit an entry to the Independent Takeaway Fish and Chip Shop of the Year Award entered in a prize draw to win a £2,000 voucher from BD Signs of Nottingham, which can be used for the purchase of some new state of the art digital menu boards and signage.
The awards are now open for entry in 13 categories.
