Chip Shop in Gloucestershire Apologises for Price Hike to £15 for Cod and Chips
A chip shop in Stonehouse, Gloucestershire, has issued an apology to its customers following a price increase that saw the cost of cod and chips rise to £15 per portion. The Nippy Chippy, managed by Brad-Lee Navruz, made the decision to increase prices as the cost of fish surged by over 60% in just three months. While most customers have been understanding about the price hike, some have expressed surprise and dismay at the sudden jump in costs.
Navruz expressed empathy for customers, acknowledging that these are challenging times for many. He stated, “I feel really bad for people. Times are harder as it is. For their Friday treat to go up quite a lot I do feel for them.” The Nippy Chippy initially explained the price increase on social media, highlighting the difficulties faced by businesses amid rising expenses.
Traditionally, the chip shop would incrementally raise prices by 10p or 20p. However, the recent spike in fish costs necessitated a larger adjustment, with prices for a normal portion of cod and chips increasing from £10.30 to £12.50. Navruz noted that such a significant price hike understandably elicited surprised reactions from customers, but most were understanding once the reasons were explained.
The surge in fish prices can be attributed to annual negotiations on fishing quotas between the UK, EU, and Norway. This year, there has been a reduction in the cod quota by 20% and a decrease in the haddock limit by 5% compared to the previous year. These measures aim to ensure the sustainable management of shared fish stocks in the long term.
Navruz revealed that attempts to introduce substitutes for cod and haddock, such as hake and plaice, had not been successful in the past. He explained, “Cod and haddock are the number one sellers in the UK – they are really good quality fish.” Despite the price rise, the Nippy Chippy has retained its customer base, with some opting for more budget-friendly menu items like sausage and chips or burger and chips.
Customers, including former fish and chip shop owner Bob Clapham, have acknowledged the inevitability of price increases due to rising costs of ingredients and overheads. Clapham emphasised, “Everything has gone up – fish, potatoes, even the wrapping paper has gone up. Of course you have got your wages, your gas, your electric, your water rates – everything.” The sentiment reflects a broader trend affecting businesses across various industries.
In response to the fishing quotas agreement, Fisheries Minister Daniel Zeichner reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting the British fishing industry. The deal secured quotas for key stocks like cod and haddock, worth up to £310 million, while prioritising the sustainable management of fish stocks for the industry’s long-term viability.
The challenging economic landscape has necessitated difficult decisions for businesses like the Nippy Chippy, where balancing quality, affordability, and sustainability remains a delicate task. As consumer behaviours adapt to changing prices and options, the chip shop continues to navigate these challenges while striving to provide a satisfying dining experience for its patrons.