BusinessesForSale.com CEO Andrew Markou was featured in Business Matters, discussing buyer demand for fish and chip shops, and the pressures facing one of Britain’s most recognisable small business sectors.
Business Matters examined the challenges facing the UK’s fish and chip shop industry, while highlighting the continued appeal of the sector to prospective business buyers.
The article reported that fish and chip shops remain an important part of many local communities, but that operators are increasingly having to focus on maintaining profitability rather than pursuing growth.
Danny Hennesy, owner of Mandens and a long-standing specialist in the fish and chip shop market, told Business Matters that buyer interest remains strong despite increasingly difficult trading conditions.
The article highlighted data from BusinessesForSale.com showing that there are currently 338 fish and chip shops listed for sale across the UK. According to the report, this reflects both existing owners preparing to exit the market and a growing number of entrepreneurs looking to acquire established businesses.
Business Matters noted that rising employment costs, high energy bills and increasing prices for key ingredients such as fish, potatoes and cooking oil are creating significant challenges for operators. The report also pointed to wider global economic pressures that continue to affect costs across the sector.
According to the article, many owners are now delaying investment plans and focusing on protecting margins rather than expanding their businesses. Despite these pressures, Business Matters reported that well-run fish and chip shops continue to attract buyers due to their established customer bases, steady demand and strong trading performance.
Andrew Markou, CEO and co-founder of BusinessesForSale.com, told the publication that in uncertain times many buyers are drawn to businesses that offer dependable demand and long-term stability. He said that while customer demand remains strong, the future growth of the sector will depend on whether the wider business environment allows operators to invest and expand.
The article concluded that fish and chip shops continue to demonstrate their long-standing resilience, but suggested that improved trading conditions could help unlock further growth opportunities across the sector.