Sales of fish and chips continue to soar

Research from the NPD Crest statistics also found that the number of people going to fast-food restaurants rose by 3.2% in the first quarter of 2008, compared to the previous year. One in every £100 spent on food is in a fish and chip shop, equating to more than 276 million meals of fish and chips sold every year from almost 10,500 shops. Andy Gray from Seafish, a judge in the Fish & Chip Shop of the Year challenge, said: "At a time when eating out is more expensive, people still want to treat themselves and the trend we are experiencing is that customers are turning to takeaway options such as fish and chips." He continued: "The current financial climate is undeniably tougher across the board but in terms of value for money, fish and chips are in a strong position, offering a nutritious meal that won't break the bank." This report follows the launch of the Fish & Chip Shop of the Year competition, now in its 21st year. Weblink: www.seafish.org.uk