There’s no denying that times are challenging. With customers tightening their belts and spending habits shifting, many fish and chip shops are seeing lower footfall and tighter margins. It’s tempting to cut back — on staff, on training, even on the finer details of service or product. But now is exactly the time to double down on what sets us apart: exceptional fish and chips, delivered with outstanding customer service.
This industry has weathered many storms, and the shops that come out stronger are the ones that refuse to compromise on quality — whether that’s on the plate or at the counter.
When Trade Is Down, Standards Must Stay High
In quieter periods, every single customer matters even more. If someone chooses to spend their limited disposable income in your shop, that’s a big deal. They’ve passed countless other options — supermarkets, cheaper takeaways, even cooking at home — and they’ve chosen you. That should never be taken for granted.
They’re not just looking for a meal — they’re looking for a great experience. And that experience starts the moment they walk through the door, or pick up the phone, or place an order online.
Delivering incredible fish and chips with friendly, efficient, and genuine service creates loyalty. It creates repeat customers. And in this economic climate, repeat customers are everything.
The Product Still Comes First
Let’s not forget: people will always pay for quality. If your fish is fresh, your batter crisp and golden, your chips hot and perfectly cooked — that will never go out of fashion.
Even with reduced staffing levels or shorter opening hours, the priority must remain:
- Maintaining high standards in preparation, cooking, and portioning
- Keeping the product consistent — from the first portion of the day to the last
- Never compromising on quality ingredients or cooking times just to save a few pence
Great customer service means smiling, remembering a customer’s name — but it also means getting the food right, every single time.
Making It Work With Fewer Hands
Yes, many shops are operating with leaner teams to manage costs. That’s reality. But great things can still be achieved with small teams if everyone is working with pride and focus.
Here’s how:
- Simplify where you can — refine the menu or prep processes to give staff more time to focus on core quality
- Invest in training — quick, focused refreshers keep standards high without long downtime
- Celebrate great feedback — when customers comment on how good the food or service is, share it with the team
- Encourage ownership — staff who know their role matters to the success of the business take more pride in it
Quality and Care Always Win
In a world where money is tighter and choices are many, customers will still travel for brilliant fish and chips served with a smile. Word of mouth is powerful — and a single fantastic experience can bring in five more customers.
Let’s not allow difficult times to lower our standards. Let’s use them to sharpen our edge — to become known in our communities as the shop that always delivers, no matter what. Great food, great service — that’s the recipe for resilience.
Top 5 Tips for Success in a Slower Market
- Nail the Basics – Make sure every portion of fish and chips is hot, fresh, and consistently excellent. Customers forgive a wait — they don’t forgive soggy chips or cold fish.
- Welcome Every Customer Warmly – A smile, eye contact, and a “how are you today?” can turn a simple transaction into a memorable experience.
- Keep it Clean – First impressions count. A spotless counter, clean floors, and tidy uniforms speak volumes about your standards.
- Train With Purpose – Even short, weekly sessions can reinforce what great service looks like. Don’t assume people know — show them.
- Use Quality Ingredients – From your fish supplier to your batter and cooking oil, every element affects the final product. Using a premium frying medium like Frymax ensures consistently crisp, golden results — giving your customers the quality they notice and remember.
For more information contact Frymax, or become a Frymax member for access to exclusive content, expert frying tips, and exciting competitions.
