The Ceres Podcast

Stelios is joined by Andrew Crook, President of the National Federation of Fish Friers, for a no-holds-barred conversation about the fish and chip industry. They discuss the challenges of running multiple shops, the heated debate over cash vs. card payments, and the pressing need for fair regulation to level the playing field. Andrew shares his journey, insights on government policies, and the future of this beloved British staple. Don’t miss this engaging episode packed with industry truths.

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In this episode of The Ceres Podcast, Stelios is joined by two leading voices in the fish and chip industry:

Tim Barnes: Director of Krispies Fish & Chips (Exmouth & Exeter), known for his innovative approach and dedication to quality in every aspect of his business.

Paul Goodgame: Managing Director of The Chesterford Group (Fishnchickn, Churchills, Toffs, The Boundary Fish & Chips), overseeing multiple brands and sites while championing growth and operational excellence.

Together, they explore the challenges and opportunities facing fish and chip shops and the wider hospitality sector, including:

• The impact of extreme weather on customer habits, deliveries, and operations.
• The complexities of managing and motivating teams in an evolving industry.
• How innovation in technology, menu design, and offers can drive growth and efficiency.
• The economic pressures of rising wages, VAT structures, and increasing costs—and how businesses can adapt.
• The importance of culture, leadership, and transforming young employees into confident team members.
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With the UK budget still fresh in their minds, David & Stelios unpack a lot of what was said and how it might affect businesses in the UK.

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In this Masterclass discussion episode, David and Stelios welcome Stuart Mitchell of Mitchells Potatoes and Patrick Clabon from HG Bliss Farms, a farmer in Norfolk-Cambridgeshire. We discuss market insights and trends impacting the industry. For an even deeper look, check out our blog's full Ceres Potato Market Report, featuring exclusive insights from Stuart, Patrick, and other industry leaders.

If you have listened to this episode, what do you think? Let us know at info@worldofceres.com

Download your FREE copy of the Fish & Tips E-Book and boost your business today. 

Join the discussion on the Ceres Podcast Facebook Group.

Episode Sponsor -> Ceres P1 Chip Preparation Formula

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In this episode, I sit with Kate Nicholls, Chief Executive of UK Hospitality, at a pivotal moment—just after Labour’s first budget. Kate and I have connected over some crucial events: Brexit, the COVID crisis, the recent general election, and now, this budget, which has stirred up strong opinions across the board.

We closely examine what this budget means for businesses, especially in the hospitality and farming sectors. Spoiler: it’s not exactly winning any popularity contests. From the left and the right, the consensus seems to be that it’s missed the mark, with each side feeling it either didn’t go far enough or went too far. This especially hits home for farmers, who feel unfairly targeted by inheritance tax changes. Farmers know how to mobilize and make their voices heard, and it leaves me thinking—should we all be doing the same to push for real change?

Thank you for your feedback on our recent episodes—your thoughts on these heavy-hitting topics, especially around VAT, have been invaluable. It’s clear these conversations matter to you, and I’m thrilled they’re resonating.

If you have listened to this episode, what do you think? Let us know at info@worldofceres.com

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Stelios is joined by John Webber, a true authority on business rates with over 35 years of expertise. As Head of Rating at Colliers, John leads a top advisory team and works closely with MPs, ministers, and the media to advocate for fairer rates. In this episode, we explore why meaningful reform remains elusive, the impact of recent budgets, and what lies ahead for UK businesses. 

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Episode Sponsor -> Ceres Deep Fryer Cleaner

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In this episode, Mark Petrou sits down with two close friends of Ceres, Lesley Graves and first-time guest Des Anastasiou from the renowned Burton Road Chippy in Lincoln. Lesley, a familiar voice from Episode 82 (where she joined Kelly Barnes and Jodie Zeniou), returns with fresh insights into the industry. If you haven’t yet, go back and listen—there’s plenty of wisdom in that episode, too!

Lesley and Des have been avid supporters of Ceres from day one, and we’re grateful for their honesty and dedication to the industry. Over the years, they’ve taken part in numerous award competitions. Lesley also serves as a Regional Director at the National Federation of Fish Friers, where she champions the industry tirelessly. This episode is packed with industry insights, heartfelt reflections, and plenty of laughs.

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Les Howard, now semi-retired, has worked as a VAT consultant, focusing primarily on helping businesses, charities, and churches navigate the complex world of Value Added Tax (VAT). With years of experience, Les has represented clients in disputes with HMRC, including Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) and Tax Tribunals. 

We welcome Les back for his second guest appearance on the Ceres Podcast to discuss VAT investigations. If you have not listened to Les on episode 181, listen. It's worth it. 

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Stelios is joined by the award-winning newcomer and young fish frier, Jamie Russo, from Redcloak Fish Bar in Stonehaven. With David taking a brief break, Jamie and I will be diving into some exciting industry updates. Don’t worry—David will be back next week to unpack the budget with us, so plenty of insightful analysis is coming!

If you have listened to this episode, what do you think? Let us know at info@worldofceres.com

Download your FREE copy of the Fish & Tips E-Book and boost your business today. 

Join the discussion on the Ceres Podcast Facebook Group.

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📧 To send your feedback or suggest a guest, email The Ceres Podcast at stelios@worldofceres.com