The owner of a fish and chip shop in Bolton, previously lauded for offering one of Britain's most affordable meals, has announced a price increase, citing government policies and escalating operational costs. Steve Mathews, 59, who gained national attention for selling a fish special – including haddock, chips, and a choice of mushy peas, beans, curry, or gravy – for just £3, has now raised the price to £3.50. This 50p increase marks a 16.7% rise for the meal that was once a quarter of the national average cost.
Mr. Mathews expressed frustration, stating that he felt compelled to adjust his prices due to what he described as a 'cost of living crisis' affecting his business. He highlighted a significant increase in his electricity bills, which he claims have more than doubled from approximately £1,000 to £2,500 per month. Additionally, the cost of essential ingredients, such as fish and potatoes, has seen substantial rises, squeezing profit margins for independent businesses like his.
The decision to increase prices comes as small businesses across the UK grapple with persistent inflationary pressures. Energy costs have remained elevated despite government support schemes, and global supply chain issues continue to impact the price of raw materials. For a business that has prided itself on providing exceptional value, the move underscores the difficult choices faced by proprietors trying to balance affordability for customers with the viability of their operations.
Mathews's previous £3 offering was widely recognised as an outlier in the industry, where the national average for a similar fish and chip meal hovers around £12. His commitment to keeping prices low had made his establishment a local favourite and a symbol of accessible dining in challenging economic times. The new £3.50 price, while still significantly below the national average, reflects the unavoidable impact of broader economic forces.
This situation mirrors the struggles of numerous independent food businesses attempting to absorb rising costs without alienating their customer base. While consumers are protected by their rights to transparent pricing, the underlying issue here is the increasing cost of doing business in the current economic climate, which inevitably translates to higher prices at the till for consumers.
The owner's direct criticism of the government points to a wider sentiment among some small business owners who feel that insufficient support or policy decisions are exacerbating their financial difficulties. This narrative of rising costs impacting local businesses and subsequently consumer prices is a recurring theme across the UK economy.
Source: Unnamed UK media reports