Kingfisher Fish and Chips third in National Fish and Chip Awards

Marine Conservation Society applauds efforts as Brae business scoops seafood award

The UK’s leading marine charity says the performance of a Scottish fish and chip shop in industry awards highlighting seafood sustainability is a credit to staff who are converting customers to making smarter fish choices over the fryer.

The Good Catch Award, which is part of the National Fish and Chip Awards, is supported by the Marine Conservation Society (MCS), and rewards fish and chip shops that have made a conscious effort to change the way in which they responsibly source and promote their fish and in doing so, help protect the industry for the future.

Frankies Chip Shop from Brae on the Shetland Islands scooped the Good Catch Award at the National Fish and Chip Awards at the Lancaster Gate Hotel in London, after being a runner up last year.

Runners up this year were Olley’s Fish Experience from Herne Hill in London and Kingfisher Fish and Chips from Plymouth. Kingfisher were also in the final three last year.

MCS Fisheries Officer, Samuel Stone, who was on the Good Catch judging panel along with the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC), says Frankies performed well across the board: "Frankies sold a very high proportion and had a good range of sustainable seafood as well as excellent consumer resources and promotion of the best seafood choices. Frankies have also been great ambassadors and even helped influence their suppliers to gain Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) Chain of Custody, ensuring the traceability of their certified haddock."

Sam says it’s brilliant to see so many chippies really embracing sustainable seafood and supporting the most sustainable fisheries and farms like those that are Green Rated by MCS or certified by the MSC.

"This year saw an extremely close contest between the three finalists, with each business excelling in different ways and adding their own flare to the sourcing and promotion of sustainable seafood. Kingfisher had exceptionally good consumer education and awareness whereas Olley’s had the largest range of sustainable seafood products available. Both excellent chippies," says Sam.