In the latest data released by the Office for National Statistics, it has been revealed that the cost of certain takeaways has significantly increased over the past five years. Fish and chips emerged as the top contender for the most substantial price hike in this time period. The average price for a portion of fish and chips rose by more than 50% to nearly £10, making it a pricier option for consumers compared to five years ago. Alongside fish and chips, the cost of kebabs increased by 44% and pizzas by 30%. Various factors contribute to these price hikes, including rising energy bills, tariffs on seafood imports, and extreme weather affecting potato harvests.
Chip shop owners have highlighted the challenges they face due to a combination of cost pressures. Jon Long, a fish and chip shop owner from Dorset, expressed his concerns over the significant rise in prices, attributing it to various factors such as escalating energy and labour costs, sanctions on Russian seafood imports, and poor potato yields. Consequently, a family of four may now find themselves spending close to £50 on a meal of fish and chips with all the trimmings, including mushy peas and drinks.
The price increase for fish and chips outpaced that of other popular takeaways, such as kebabs, chicken and chips, pizzas, Indian, and Chinese dishes. From July 2019 to July 2024, the cost of a portion of fish and chips surged by 52%, reaching £9.88. Other takeaways experienced price hikes ranging from 29% to 44% during the same period, indicating a general trend of rising costs across the board.
The surge in prices has led to concerns among takeaway owners and consumers alike. Jon Long emphasised the unprecedented challenges faced by businesses, particularly citing soaring energy costs as a major hurdle. The imposition of tariffs on Russian seafood imports and fluctuating potato prices due to adverse weather conditions have further compounded the situation for fish and chip shops.
Amidst these challenges, industry experts and regulators are working to address the issues faced by businesses in the takeaway sector. Measures such as new rules to ensure fair treatment and increased transparency regarding energy costs are being implemented to support businesses in managing their expenses. Additionally, efforts are being made to provide assistance to businesses affected by rising costs, with a focus on promoting a vibrant and sustainable takeaway industry.
In conclusion, the significant price hikes observed in the takeaway sector, particularly for fish and chips, underscore the complex challenges faced by businesses in the current economic climate. As costs continue to rise, stakeholders are exploring strategies to navigate these hurdles and sustain a thriving takeaway industry for the benefit of businesses and consumers alike.