The UK’s top three foodservice operators serving fish and chips have been revealed today (Tuesday 21 November) as part of the 30th anniversary National Fish & Chip Awards, organised by Seafish.

Shortlisted finalists for the Best Foodservice Operator Award – one of 15 categories in the 2018 National Fish & Chip Awards – the three businesses that will now compete for the top title in this award category are:

Butlins with resorts in Bognor Regis, West Sussex, Minehead, Somerset and Skegness, Lincolnshire Foundry 34 in Penrith, Cumbria The Marcia Inn in Bishopthorpe, York

This category is open to all general foodservice outlets where fish and chips is included on the menu but is not the core offering. To reach this stage of the competition, finalists have been assessed against a wide variety of judging criteria including responsible sourcing policies, supplier relationships, preparation and cooking techniques, menu diversification, staff training and development and customer service.

Over the coming weeks, the businesses will face additional mystery diner judging audits to assess both the levels of customer service and the quality of fish and chips on offer. This final stage of competition judging will determine the overall national winner who will be announced at the 30th anniversary awards ceremony.

Marcus Coleman, Chief Executive at Seafish, said: "With more and more pubs, canteens, restaurants and cafes committed to serving high quality fish and chips, it’s important for the awards to recognise their contribution to the industry.

"Our finalists don’t solely focus on producing fish and chips, but nevertheless serve some of the best quality product in our trade - proof that you can taste high quality fish and chips in places other than traditional takeaways. Congratulations to them all and it is a delight to see them upholding our high standards.”

The winner of the Best Foodservice Operator Award will be announced at The National Fish & Chip Awards’ 30th anniversary ceremony in London on 25 January 2018. 

For more information visit www.fishandchipawards.com or follow @FishNChipAwards #FishNChipAwards.