As the UK moves closer to its goal of achieving Net Zero by 2030, the fish and chip industry is raising alarms about the potential impact on local businesses.
The National Federation of Fish Fryers (NFFF) has expressed concerns that the green energy transition could lead to even higher costs for chippies already struggling with years of tax pressures.
According to Andrew Crook, the head of the NFFF, the move towards fully electrifying cooking appliances isn’t just impractical, but also unaffordable for many fish and chip shops that rely on gas as the most effective frying method.
Crook argues that while the shift to clean energy is important, it risks driving many small businesses, often the heart of local communities, out of operation.
He emphasized the need for the government to consider the unique needs of the industry and warned that without more support, many chippies might close their doors for good after years of economic hardship.
Record Price Increases and Struggling Business Owners
The fish and chip industry has already seen a sharp rise in operating costs.
The price of a typical fish and chips meal soared to nearly £10 last year, marking a staggering 52% increase since 2019 when the average price was just £6.48.
With rising costs for fish, batter, fat, and energy, the industry is facing significant financial pressure.
The NFFF has previously warned that one-third of the fish and chip shops they represent could shut down due to these rising costs.
Crook, who runs Skippers of Euxton chip shop in Chorley, argues that a complete switch to green energy infrastructure would not be feasible for his business.
He is calling on the government to take a more sensible approach, acknowledging that they may not fully understand the intricacies of the fish and chip industry.
Urgent Calls for Government Intervention
In light of the ongoing financial struggles, Crook and other industry leaders met with Gareth Thomas, the Minister for Small Business and Hospitality, to urge the government for immediate action.
Together with over 20 industry associations, they are calling for a reduction in VAT for the hospitality, events, and cultural sectors to 15%, alongside a reversal of the recent national insurance contribution increase.
These associations argue that without this vital support, many small businesses, including fish and chip shops, could be forced to close.
They estimate that costs could increase by up to £100,000 starting in April, further jeopardizing the future of local establishments.
Political Debate on the Future of Fish and Chip Shops
Politicians are also weighing in on the issue, with Andrew Griffith, the shadow business secretary, accusing Labour of condemning seaside towns to a future without fish and chips.
Shadow business minister Greg Smith added that the potential extinction of fish and chip shops is another example of the damage caused by “Net Zero zealotry.”
On the other side, the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero maintains that the government’s push for clean energy is aimed at benefiting local businesses, including fish and chip shops, by providing access to affordable and sustainable power.
They also plan to reform business rates to make it easier for small businesses to thrive.
The Financial Toll of Net Zero Goals
While the government remains committed to achieving Net Zero by 2030, concerns persist over the financial implications of this ambitious agenda.
The Climate Change Committee has estimated that meeting this target could cost the UK 1-2% of GDP annually, with the total cost reaching up to £50 billion by 2050.
Despite these financial challenges, Ed Miliband, the minister behind the Net Zero initiative, insists that making Britain a “clean energy superpower” will eventually lower energy bills in the long run.
However, recent increases in the energy price cap, which will rise by 6.4% in April, suggest that the financial burden on consumers and businesses may continue to grow before any benefits of clean energy are fully realized.
As the UK moves forward with its ambitious energy goals, it remains to be seen how small businesses like fish and chip shops will be affected.
Many are hoping that the government will find a way to balance its environmental goals with the practical realities of running local, family-owned businesses.