Mobile fish fryers vie for top UK award

The National Fish & Chip Awards has announced the three finalists competing for its 2027 Mobile Operator of the Year title, recognising businesses delivering high-quality fish and chips and customer service across a range of locations.

The shortlisted operators are The Chippie Van, based in Penrith, Cumbria; The Cod’s Scallops on Tour, from Nottingham, Nottinghamshire; and The Little Fishy, based in North Shields, Tyne and Wear.

Andrew Crook, president of the National Federation of Fish Friers, which organises the awards, said: “Running a mobile fish and chip business is a completely different environment to working in a fixed shop. These operators are often working at a faster pace, in unfamiliar locations and with limited space and supplies, so they must be agile, adaptable and ready to respond to whatever comes their way. Yet, despite the challenges, they still must be able to deliver fantastic fish and chips, cooked fresh and served on demand.”

The category celebrates the contribution of mobile operators to the fish and chip sector, bringing the traditional takeaway experience to weddings, festivals, corporate events and communities that may not have convenient access to a fixed premises.

Crook said reaching the final three demonstrated the resilience and entrepreneurial spirit required to operate successfully in a constantly changing environment.

Food research and development specialist Kerry sponsors the category. National Account Manager Alan Pearce highlighted the planning, preparation and attention to detail needed to deliver consistent quality across different locations.

The finalists now face an intensive interview process before the winner is announced at the National Fish & Chip Awards ceremony on 24 February at Park Plaza Westminster Bridge in London.

The three businesses will compete to succeed Frosty’s Mobile Chippy, based in Northumberland, which won the 2026 title.