In a time when costs are rising faster than ever—ingredients, energy, wages, and just about everything else—it’s understandable that fish and chip shop owners feel the pressure. But instead of immediately turning to price increases (which can be risky in today’s consumer climate), there’s another, smarter route: refreshing your menu with exciting new products that appeal to customers and support your bottom line.
By thinking creatively and strategically, you can drive more sales, attract new customers, and reach your profit margins—without compromising on quality or tradition.
A Menu That Works Harder for You
The classic fish and chips will always be the heart of your business, but modern consumers are looking for variety, innovation, and choice—especially if they’re eating out less often and want real value when they do. Offering new, carefully selected menu items can:
- Increase average spend per customer
- Help you upsell or create meal deals
- Attract new customer demographics (younger diners, families, flexitarians, etc.)
- Encourage repeat visits
And crucially, these new products don’t have to cost the earth to implement.
What Kind of Products Work?
Here are some of the most successful types of new items being added to fish and chip shop menus across the industry:
- Loaded Chips – Topped fries are big business. From cheese and curry to pulled pork or spicy chicken, they’re high-margin, customisable, and popular with younger diners.
- Fish Bites or Goujons – A smaller portion, big on appeal. Perfect for children’s meals or as an upsell side, and ideal for using fish offcuts effectively.
- Plant-Based Options – Whether it’s vegan sausages, battered banana blossom, or meat-free nuggets, offering a few well-chosen vegan or vegetarian dishes can open your doors to a whole new customer base.
- Premium Sides – Think halloumi fries, battered pickles, mac & cheese bites, or homemade sauces. Small cost, big impact.
- Meal Boxes or Combos – Bundling together items into a meal deal not only simplifies ordering but also helps increase average transaction value.
Think Beyond the Fryer
New products don’t have to be fried to be successful. Items like fresh salads, seafood specials, or even seasonal desserts can add value and interest, especially for families or health-conscious diners.
Innovation doesn’t mean abandoning tradition—it means enhancing it with options that meet modern expectations while still celebrating what makes your shop special.
Keep It Profitable
When introducing new items, always calculate the true cost and margin. Opt for dishes that are quick to prepare, require minimal extra equipment or labour, and make smart use of existing ingredients. Staff training and portion control are key—don’t let great ideas become wasteful in execution.
Also, test before you commit. Trial a new item as a weekly special or limited-time offer. Collect feedback and see how it performs before rolling it out fully.
Final Thoughts
Now more than ever, every item on your menu needs to earn its place. With thoughtful planning and the right support, introducing new products isn’t a gamble—it’s an opportunity.
The fish and chip industry has always been about tradition, but the shops that thrive are those that aren’t afraid to evolve. So go ahead—get creative, think outside the box, and let your menu work harder for you.
We’re Here to Help
At Frymax, we work closely with shops across the UK to not only provide the best cooking oil, but to help our customers stay profitable and competitive. Our Frymax Ambassadors can offer insights on product development, preparation techniques, and menu design—all at no extra cost.
If you’re ready to explore new ideas that increase profit margins while keeping customers coming back, we’re ready to support you every step of the way.
Don’t hesitate to contact the helpful Frymax team today and we can help to support you and your business.
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