National Fish and Chip Awards 2026- FAQ’s

 

How many categories can I enter?

You can only enter one of the Group A categories at the National Fish and Chip Awards and up to two categories from Group B and any from Category C. Please read the criteria for the category/categories you are entering to make sure you meet the criteria. Some categories are closely followed by Zoom calls should you progress, please make a note of these dates when entering as Zoom dates are non-negotiable. Spelling, punctuation and grammar are not taken into account. The use of AI is not permitted, any entry seen to be using it will be disqualified.

Please note: If entering more than one category, where you are a finalist, a maximum of 2 tickets will be allocated irrelevant of how many categories you are finalist in. No expenses are provided.

Group A- You can only enter 1 category from this group 

  1. Fish and Chip Takeaway of the year Closing date 11th August 25.
  2. Fish and Chip Newcomer of the year Closing date 15th September 25.
  3. International Fish and Chip Operator of the Year Closing date 15th September 25.
  4. Fish and Chip Restaurant of the Year Closing date 15th

 

Group B- You can only enter a maximum of 2 categories from this group, even if you didn’t enter any in Group A

  1. Field to Frier Award  Closing date 15th September 25
  2. Fish and Chip Mobile Operator of the Year Closing date 23rd September 25.
  3. Marketing Initiative of the year Award Closing date 23rd September 25
  4. Environmental and Sustainable Business Award Closing date 23rd September 25
  5. Menu Innovation Award Closing date 23rd September 25
  6. NFFF Quality Accreditation Champion Closing date 30th September 25

 

Group C -All Categories can be entered, even if you didn’t enter any in Group A or Group B

  1. Drywite Young Fish Frier of the Year Closing date 16th September 25
  2. Employee of the year Closing date 30th September 25
  3. Community Engagement Award Closing date 30th September 25
  4. Training and Development Award Closing date 30th September 25

 

Do I have to be a member of the National Federation of Fish Friers to be able to enter the National Fish and Chip Awards?

No, you don’t have to be a member of the National Federation of Fish Friers. We would encourage all fish and chip businesses to become members as we are stronger together as an industry and there are many member benefits that would be helpful to both you and your business.

Do I have to pay to enter the National Fish and Chip Awards?

No, the Awards are completely free to enter. Check the criteria for each category to make sure you are eligible to enter.

Do I need to hold the National Federation of Fish Friers Quality Accreditation to Enter the National Fish and Chip Awards?

No, you do not need to hold the National Federation of Fish Friers Quality Accreditation to enter the National Fish and Chip Awards. Many businesses choose to undertake it as it is a good benchmark for getting awards ready.

Do I need to have a big shop, new equipment, and a certain type of range to stand a chance when entering the awards?

No, the awards judges are looking for knowledgeable people who are running clean, well-kept businesses whilst selling a good product.

What are the benefits of entering the National Fish and Chip Awards?

Feedback from previous winners and finalists tells us that their takings and footfall increase, team moral increases, winning can be a boost to local areas, opportunities have opened up and they are now standing out from local competitors.

What have you got to lose? Good luck!