‘Nightmare’ prices are battering chippies as cost of living crisis hits area’s takeaways
FRY-HIGH COSTS ARE SQUEEZING OUR CHIP SHOPS
THE cost of living crisis has affected everyone in recent weeks, and independent businesses are no different.
Along with soaring energy bills, inflation rose to 9 per cent last week, sending prices even higher.
The price hikes have put local businesses in a difficult situation, with many being forced to raise their prices in order to survive.
The challenge is even harder for newly formed businesses which are trying to establish themselves amidst the cost of living crisis.
Three Brothers Fish and Chips opened in Hessle earlier this year in the beating heart of Prestongate.
Since serving their first fish in March, the chippy has already proven itself a welcome addition to the West Hull village.
Speaking to the Mail, Three Brothers’ owner Ozi said: “It’s a nightmare, to be honest.
“The rent has gone up and everything is getting more and more expensive.
“Since we opened, the price of fish has gone up twice.
“But, it’s the same with everything - the cardboard boxes, the paper napkins, and cans of pop - it’s all gone up.
“The oil that we fry in is a lot more expensive at the moment because of what’s going on in Russia and Ukraine.
“It’s gone from £15 a bottle to more than £19.
“It’s even harder for us because we are a new business trying to establish ourselves.
“In a few months, we will probably have to put our prices up to survive.
“We’re coping at the moment, but if the rates get much higher then we could be in real trouble.
“But, I love what I do and you won’t get me out of here easily.
“I’ve waited three or four years to open a fish and chip shop in this area, and now that it’s open we couldn’t be happier.
“We already have a lot of regulars and the people of Hessle have been absolutely fantastic, so we’re feeling optimistic about the future.
“I’d like to thank you all for being so welcoming and we’d love to see you all down here.
“If anyone is after some fresh fish and chips, then head down to Prestongate and pay us a visit.”
While nobody can avoid the cost of living crisis entirely, shopping locally and supporting independent businesses and takeaways can help to relieve some of the strain on local people.
The oil we fry in is a lot more expensive because of what’s going on in Russia and Ukraine. It’s gone from £15 to £19
Ozi, of Three Brothers