New Northern Ireland fish and chip shop angling for success after being nominated for UK award

It may be new to the world of fish and chips but don’t call this Northern Ireland business small fry - it has just been shortlisted for Newcomer of the Year at the UK industry’s biggest and most prestigious ceremony, the National Fish & Chip Awards 2025.

Skipper Jacks in Clogher, is one of five chippies from Devon, Uxbridge, Yorkshire, Northern Ireland and Kent in the running for the prestigious accolade.

All began trading on, or after, 1 January 2023 and have successfully made it through the first stages of a rigorous judging process where trade experts tested the business owners’ industry knowledge, their environmental and sustainable approaches, customer service and employee welfare.

The next rounds include mystery shopper visits to make sure their fish and chips are knock-out delicious, followed by interviews which will determine the final three.

Having only been open for a year, Wendy from Skipper Jacks, said: “We are shocked but delighted to be shortlisted for Newcomer of the year in the national Fish & Chips awards.

"We have only been trading for a year and decided to enter just to see if we could learn from the experience and indeed those who have an expertise in the industry.

"Getting short listed in the top 5 has far exceeded our expectations. No matter what happens we are truly chuffed to get this far.

"Our vision for this business was always to serve great food, using top quality locally sourced ingredients under a memorable brand. This has definitely boosted our confidence and given us even more passion and drive for the future of Skipper Jacks.”

These are the chippies that have proved in a short space of time that they are ‘some-fin’ special: Alan’s Fish and Chips in Cullompton, Devon, Good Cod in Hillingdon, Uxbridge, Mackerel Sky in Stamford Bridge, East Riding of Yorkshire, Skipper Jacks in Clogher, County Tyrone, Northern Ireland and The Anchor in Bexley, London.

Andrew Crook, president of the National Federation of Fish Friers (NFFF), which organises the awards, says the lineup of finalists is exceptional: “The fish and chip industry is incredibly fulfilling, rewarding and fun to be part of but these five businesses opened at a time that was well-documented as challenging for even the most established.

“However, our shortlisted hopefuls didn’t shy away from the situation and went for it to achieve their dreams, and that leap of faith is paying off. They may be new on the scene, but these chip shops are doing noteworthy things already, the teams are energised, full of ideas, passion and drive. The selection process isn’t easy, so we commend all who have entered and got to this stage. We are excited to have this opportunity to work alongside such inspiring people.”

ADM/Frymax is sponsoring the Newcomer of the Year award, and its UK Brand & Marketing Manager Andrew Marriott added: “The first fish and chip shops in the country opened in the early 1860s, giving rise to an industry which has seen fish and chips firmly established as the nation’s favourite meal.

“In the 75-year history of Frymax there have been many changes, but the constant has been the resilience of those in the industry to overcome hurdles and maintain the quality standards which have enabled fish and chips to remain top of the tree.

“Despite all the setbacks of recent years there are still those who show the initiative, commitment and commercial acumen to enter our great industry. New entrants are part of the lifeblood of the fish and chip trade and their entrance into the business is vital for our future prosperity.

“Frymax is proud to sponsor the Newcomer of the Year award for the second year running. We commend those who have been chosen to compete and whilst there can only be one winner, in the eyes of Frymax they are all winners, and we wish them every success in their new ventures.”

The winner of Newcomer of the Year will be announced at the National Fish & Chip Awards on February 26 at the Park Plaza Westminster Bridge in London.