HONOURING EXCELLENCE: NORWAY’S PARTNERSHIP WITH UK FISH AND CHIPS

Honouring excellence: Norway’s partnership with UK fish and chips. Read Fish Focus latest publication focusing on Seafood from Norway.

The partnership between Norway and the UK in seafood is built on decades of collaboration, shared values, and a deep respect for the sea. United by a commitment to sustainability, provenance, and quality, these two nations have forged a strong alliance – one that continues to support the UK’s most iconic dish: fish and chips.

At the heart of this relationship lies Norway’s role as a trusted supplier of responsibly sourced cod and haddock – premium whitefish that meets the highest standards of quality and sustainability. For generations, this seafood has formed the backbone of the UK’s fish and chip industry, delivering consistent quality, flavour, and traceability to friers across the country.

Norway’s support for the sector extends far beyond supply. For over a decade, Seafood from Norway has proudly partnered with the organisers of the National Fish & Chip Awards (NF&CA) to celebrate excellence across the industry. Since 2022, the awards have been organised by the National Federation of Fish Friers (NFFF), with whom Seafood from Norway works closely to champion the people and businesses behind the UK’s most iconic dish. This collaboration has taken many forms, from sponsorship and educational initiatives to immersive experiences that connect award winners with the source of their seafood.

In 2025, in addition to headline sponsoring the Awards, Seafood from Norway supported the Environment and Sustainable Business Award, reinforcing its commitment to responsible practices across the supply chain. Earlier in the year, it hosted NF&CA winners for an Inspiration Day – a celebration of achievement and a platform for dialogue on the future of sustainable seafood in UK hospitality. The day included a tour of Capital City College Westminster, a hands-on cooking session with Master Fishmonger Carol ‘CJ’ Jackson using Norwegian saithe, and a reception at the Norwegian Ambassador’s Residence, where H.E. Tore Hattrem praised the enduring seafood partnership between the two nations.

In June, the UK celebrated the 10th anniversary of National Fish & Chip Day (NF&CD) – a milestone event honouring the people, businesses, and traditions behind the dish. Seafood from Norway proudly stood alongside operators and consumers in marking the occasion, reinforcing its role as a key supporter of the industry.

Looking ahead, the 2026 National Fish & Chip Awards have launched with a refreshed application process and new categories, including the Menu Innovation Award. As a continued partner of the NFFF, Seafood from Norway remains committed to supporting the next generation of talent and celebrating the people who bring this beloved dish to life.

Victoria Braathen, UK Director of the Norwegian Seafood Council, summed it up:

“The Norwegian seafood industry has worked closely with the fish and chip industry in the UK for many years, supplying responsibly sourced cod and haddock of the highest quality. This year has seen many enriching opportunities for us to celebrate our longstanding relationship with distributors and the many talented, dedicated fish and chip operators across the UK. We’re incredibly honoured to be a part of it.”

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