New Year Reflections from Andrew Crook, President of the NFFF

Dear Members and Friends,

As we step into a new year, I hope that everyone enjoyed a bustling festive season while also carving out precious time with family. Though the holiday period might not have favored cash flow, it provided a valuable opportunity for many of us to recharge. This time of year naturally invites reflection on the past and anticipation for the future.

The year 2025 certainly had its share of challenges, prompting many to reassess and streamline their operations—a necessity that, for me, was long overdue.

Currently, I find myself in Spain, fulfilling a personal duty by scattering my mother’s ashes at the same site where we honored my father—Sohail Castle in Fuengirola. After several years without a relaxing break, this moment offered a chance to unwind and contemplate life. I sit in the town square, watching the remnants of the Christmas market being taken down as life here begins to return to normal.

Interestingly, the hotel where I’m staying has been here for 22 years. I was delighted to find that the egg chef I met during breakfast is the same one who worked here back then. This observation led me to reflect on how the hospitality profession is perceived in Spain compared to the UK.

In the local restaurants and bars, I see professional waitstaff who take pride in their work, establishing hospitality as a respected career path. Conversely, in the UK, these roles often attract transient staff, such as students, treating them more as temporary positions than as long-term careers.

I have a team member who has been with me for over 12 years and has faced condescension when sharing her career in hospitality. Although we have made efforts to elevate perceptions of our industry, we still have work to do.

I have also noted that the hospitality scene in Spain is thriving. While it is a tourist destination, it attracts not just visitors but also locals, mainly due to the lower costs. The VAT on hospitality is only 10%, and the tax on alcohol seems to be significantly lower, allowing for pints under £4.50 in various venues. With a minimum wage of €9.60 and a relatively lower cost of living, it creates a favorable environment.

In contrast, the UK government appears focused on creating a high-wage, high-tax economy. However, is this truly the best approach? As wages rise annually, so do living costs, often leaving those who generate wealth with stagnant incomes.

There must be a balance, especially if the goal is job creation—something our sector is more than capable of if provided with the right support. Yet, many businesses are currently reducing their operating hours and workforce, a trend backed by data across our industry.

The National Federation of Fish Friers (NFFF) has tirelessly lobbied for change, and in 2026, we will continue to advocate on your behalf. Engaging with MPs has been our most effective strategy, and we appreciate our members who have taken the initiative to share their experiences and invite politicians into their businesses.

Looking ahead, we remain focused on addressing taxation and employment rights with government bodies. Without ongoing dialogue, we risk creating impractical legislation that negatively impacts both the economy and employment. Solutions that appear sound on paper often lead to unforeseen consequences.

Of course, we cannot ignore the pressing issue of fluctuating fish prices, a challenge that lies beyond our control. However, we can engage key stakeholders to promote alternative seafood options and demonstrate our industry’s proactive efforts to navigate these difficulties.

Additionally, the NFFF is eager to collaborate with our associate members and industry partners to encourage customers to be more adventurous in their seafood choices.

With a new CEO at Seafish, we will reach out to ensure that the substantial funds raised from the fish and chip sector are utilized effectively. If these funds do not directly benefit those contributing them, we must reconsider who manages them.

The year 2026 will undoubtedly present new challenges. Nonetheless, by fostering collaboration within the industry and sharing our experiences, we can collectively work towards improvement.

For any member seeking support or simply wishing to converse, we are here for you. If you’re not yet a member, I encourage you to join us; increased membership strengthens our capacity to advocate for the fish and chip industry.

Please remember, we may not always align on every issue, but our actions are always rooted in the best interests of our industry. We are committed to building on the significant political advocacy we have established in recent years.

May you all enjoy a fantastic new year, and I eagerly anticipate collaborating with you throughout 2026. Together, we can navigate any challenges that arise.

Andrew Crook, President – National Federation of Fish Friers

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