We were delighted to attend the launch of the National Fish & Chip Awards 2026 on Monday 30th June, hosted by Yarm Road Fish & Chips in Darlington, County Durham.
Run by the industry for the industry, the National Fish & Chip Awards are open to all 10,000+ fish and chip businesses in the UK, as well as overseas. It’s free to enter, and an improved application process has been introduced for this year’s hopefuls.
Chippies that believe their takeaway, restaurant or mobile unit could be number one are encouraged to take the leap towards official confirmation. Those aged 25 and under looking to put their skills to the test and develop their craft in a supportive environment – the Drywite Young Fish Frier of the Year prize awaits. There are 10 further categories, including the all-new Menu Innovation award.
Experiencing a 30% increase in trade since winning the Fish & Chip Takeaway of the Year Award, Yarm Road Director-manager Will Burrell put the case forward for shops to enter, saying: “For anyone wishing to enter the awards, just do it, seriously! We’re just a humble little chippy with a passion for what we do. Winning seemed impossible, but if we can do it, with the right mindset and drive, anyone can! Enter the awards, and if you don’t win, use your feedback to come back stronger. It’s such an amazing and rewarding process and our business really flourished throughout.”
New Kiremko in action
The launch was not only an opportunity to get a first glimpse of Yarm Road’s restaurant, which is set to open later this month, but also to see its new five pan high efficiency Kiremko island range in action.
Attending the event, Paul Williams, Chairman at KFE, commented: “We would like to thank Graeme, Julie and Will for their hospitality. The restaurant looked fantastic, the fish and chips were spot on, and the staff did a fantastic job especially considering it was their first real run-through.
“Shops should absolutely enter the National Fish & Chip Awards. The benefits to their business are clear from what we’ve seen today. Even reaching the finals can have a real positive impact, let alone winning.”
The National Fish & Chip Awards 2026, organised by The NFFF and sponsored by Seafood from Norway, will be held in London in February. Enter now at www.thefishandchipawards.com