MSC: Half the contenders for Independent Takeaway of the Year semi-finals are certified
The announced shortlist of contenders for the Independent Takeaway Fish and Chip Shop of the Year features ten MSC certified chippies from the 20 contenders selected for the semi-finals.
The ten brands serve certified sustainable fish marked by the blue MSC ecolabel, with added boat to plate traceability, and are located across the UK, In Northern Ireland, Wales and most key regions of England. They are Kingfisher Fish and Chips, Godfrey's, Burton Road Chippy, Bishopston Fish Bar, Miller's Fish and Chips, Hikary's, Dolphin Takeaway, Fish City, Fish and Chips at 149, and Hodgson's Chippy.
The Independent Takeaway Fish & Chip Shop of the Year is an esteemed award for chippies across the country, with rounds of judging reducing the contenders at each stage until the awards ceremony in January 2017. This latest round of unannounced visits to contenders, judged their service and quality of their fish and chips, reducing numbers from 60 to 20.
The high proportion of MSC certified chippies gaining places in this latest round of judging reflects a significant rise in the number of fish and chip shops getting MSC certification. The current Number 1 chippie, Simpsons Fish & Chips in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, won the coveted title of Independent Takeaway Fish & Chip Shop of the Year in January this year.
Nikki Hawkins, of awards organisers Seafish, said: “MSC certification aligns with everything that the awards stand for; ensuring a sustainable future for the fish and chip industry. It’s encouraging to see more and more shops understanding the benefits of responsible sourcing.”
George Clark, UK Commercial Manager for the Marine Stewardship Council said, “We’re absolutely delighted that half of the latest shortlisted contenders for the top industry award this year are MSC certified! These shops, are passionate about promoting sustainable seafood and amazing ambassadors for the fish and chip trade. It’s fantastic news for the future of our oceans and for the future of the nation’s favourite takeaway. Congratulations to all award finalists and good luck for the semi finals.”
