Norway & the UK Fish & Chips Industry: A Strategic Partnership Between Two Cornerstone Industries
By Bjørn-Erik Stabell, Country Director UK of the Norwegian Seafood Council.
Fish & Chips is more than a meal; it is a beloved British icon that symbolizes national identity and cultural heritage. Emerging as a staple in the 19th century, this dish provided affordable nourishment for the working class during times of hardship and war, shaping the fabric of British life.
Today, the Fish & Chips industry thrives, intricately linked to the quality and sustainability of Norwegian cod. This enduring collaboration between British and Norwegian partners not only preserves traditional recipes but also fosters innovation and excellence for the future.
Fish & Chips: More Than a Dish, a British Cultural Icon
Fish & Chips transcends being just a classic meal; it embodies a cornerstone of Britain’s identity. Since its introduction during the Industrial Revolution, it has remained a nutritious and affordable option for many. Remarkably, during both World Wars, this dish was considered vital for morale and was never subjected to rationing. Today, Britons consume approximately 200 million portions of Fish & Chips each year, generating over £1 billion in revenue for the industry.
The Central Role of Cod & Haddock in Fish & Chips
Cod serves as the cornerstone of the traditional Fish & Chips experience, with around 10% of the total Northeast Atlantic cod catch being used in the UK. Norway stands as a key supplier, with 27% of cod consumed in Britain sourced from Norwegian waters. Renowned for its quality and sustainability, Norwegian cod plays an essential role in the value chain that sustains this iconic dish.
Haddock, often revered as a beloved alternative, also holds a significant place in the Fish & Chips tradition. For some regions, it surpasses cod as the preferred choice. As consumer preferences evolve, haddock is expected to gain even more prominence in both the Norwegian and UK markets, ensuring the finest fish remains at the heart of this culinary beloved in Britain.
The Norwegian Frozen-at-Sea Industry: Ensuring Quality from Ocean to Plate
Every portion of Fish & Chips benefits from a robust value chain, predominantly influenced by Norway’s frozen-at-sea industry. This innovative deep-sea fleet delivers premium-quality whitefish, caught and frozen on board within hours, ensuring maximum freshness and flavor retention. The expertise and technology used in freezing cod and haddock from Norway set a high standard that appeals greatly to the UK market.
The Norwegian frozen-at-sea industry prides itself on its close partnerships with British stakeholders throughout the entire value chain. Every year, winners of the National Fish & Chip Awards are invited to Norway to witness this process firsthand. This opportunity allows them to experience a day aboard a fishing vessel, interacting with the crew and understanding the journey of their catch—from ocean to plate.
As Andrew Crook, President of the National Federation of Fish Friers (NFFF), explains: “It is a pleasure to witness the passion invested throughout the entire Norwegian value chain to ensure we receive the very best product.” These visits further solidify the ties between the Norwegian frozen-at-sea industry and the UK fish and chip sector, fostering a commitment to sustainable fishing practices and quality assurance.
Looking Ahead: February 2026 – The Best Meets the Best
In February 2026, a new chapter of Fish & Chips Awards will commence, aimed at crowning the next champions who will engage with Norway’s frozen-at-sea industry. This event is more than just a tradition; it symbolizes a robust partnership grounded in excellence. “The best meets the best,” I strongly believe, and this collaboration is essential for shaping the future of our industries.
In June, award winners will journey to Ålesund, continuing the dialogue on enhancing collaboration, with a focus on quality, sustainability, and innovation. Such initiatives foster the sharing of ideas, strengthen partnerships, and shape future solutions within the industry.
Now and the Future
More than food, Fish & Chips represents culture, history, and identity. To preserve this tradition, we must innovate, practice sustainability, and enhance international collaborations. The partnership between UK fish friers and the Norwegian frozen-at-sea industry supplying high-quality Norwegian cod will continue to play an instrumental role in this journey ahead.
For more insights on this partnership, visit the full article here.
Image credit: Seafish
