Family business celebrates 50 years of serving fish and chips in Cricieth

Nick Garbutt and his partner Kate manage a fish and chip shop in Cricieth, Wales, which has remained in the same family for over 50 years.

Kate's parents opened the shop in 1976 during a record-breaking hot summer. Nick and Kate began their partnership 38 years ago and eventually took over the business from Kate's parents. Nick moved from Leeds to Cricieth to join the family business, despite having no prior experience in the industry.

They spent time in Leeds learning the technical aspects of the trade, such as preparing the batter and keeping the oil clean. The owners note that the cost of living and food prices have risen significantly since they took over. When they first started, a portion of chips cost 95p and fish cost £1.95. Currently, fish costs £8.90 and a portion of chips costs over £3. Despite these changes, the owners maintain that they prioritize purchasing high-quality ingredients.

Because of the long hours required to run a seaside business during the busy summer months, Nick and Kate now close the shop during the winter. They shut the business on Fridays and remain closed from the winter season until approximately two days before Christmas. This schedule allows them to spend time with their children during the colder months.