Last updated on March 31st, 2022
Cost of fitting out a fish and chip shop
Thinking about starting up your very own fish and chip shop? Fitting it out will be the biggest expense. However, by preparing a careful budget and estimating costs in advance, you can find areas to save money. With so much to consider and professional equipment to be installed, it’s best to call in a team of tradespeople who specialise in restaurant fit-outs.
Thinking about starting up your very own fish and chip shop? Fitting it out will be the biggest expense. However, by preparing a careful budget and estimating costs in advance, you can find areas to save money. With so much to consider and professional equipment to be installed, it’s best to call in a team of tradespeople who specialise in restaurant fit-outs.
Once you’ve had a read of our guide to the cost of fitting out a fish and chip shop, use our free search tool to find vetted professionals in your area.
What is the cost of fitting out a fish and chip shop?
Fish and chip shops range from the pricey gourmet offerings of Mayfair to the traditional high street chains and small independents that power the British people. At the high end of the spectrum, a luxury fish and chip shop might cost several million to fit out.
On average, fit-out costs for high street chains are far more palatable at around £650,000. If you’re working to a tight budget, there are some small fish and chip shops that have managed to fit out their pitch for under £100,000. Ultimately, the cost will range depending on how grand your plans and how big your budget.
Factors affecting fish and chip shop fitting cost
| Type/size of restaurant | Fitting Cost - Range Low | Fitting Cost - Range High |
|---|---|---|
| High end London Restaurant | £2m | £10m |
| High Street chain fish bar | £550,000 | £800,000 |
| Small independent fish and chip shop | £80,000 | £100,000 |
Our costs are ballpark averages – get a local tradesperson to quote now
From frying ranges to chilling cabinets, chip scuttles, utensils, signage, tables and chairs, fish and chip restaurant fit-outs cost a lot of money. That said, the total budget for your restaurant fit-out will depend on several key factors – notably the location and size of the unit. As you would expect, prices for London restaurant fit-outs and those in the South East are more expensive than those in the North and Midlands.
The bigger your restaurant, the more equipment and furnishings you will need to fit it out. So, if you’re sticking to a tight budget, you might want to keep the property on the small side. However, keep in mind that the upfront investment for more space and more equipment could yield higher profits due to the increased capacity.
Ultimately, we recommend you find the shop size that makes the most sense for your restaurant and business plan.
What equipment do I need for a fish and chip shop?
To help you budget for the launch of your fish and chip shop, we’ve put together a checklist for the equipment you will need to run the restaurant to a high standard.
Frying range – These can range in size and style from standalone island frying ranges, counter frying ranges and wall frying ranges. Frying ranges will usually come at a combined cost for supply and installation.- Large storage fridges – Specialist fish fridges are designed to chill the fish at optimum temperature without spoiling the product. Commercial fish fridges cost between £2,000-£6,000 for supply and fit.
- Display fridges – Display fridges are essential for providing cold drinks and snacks to customers. These cost around £400 for supply, although prices will depend on the size of the fridge.
- Potato peeling machine – A potato peeling machine is the bread and butter of fish and chip shop equipment. At an average cost of £1,000, it’s a worthwhile investment that will save you so much time.
- Chip scuttle – Chip scuttles store your freshly made chips and keep them warm. The average unit will set you back around £1,000, but it’s a no brainer for any respectable fish and chip shop.
- Heated food display – Heated food cabinets offer the ideal solution to keeping fresh food warm and showing it off to your customers. Prices for the unit alone range between £1,000-£2,000.
- Utensils – Along with scoops, tongues, forks and knives, you’ll need vinegar bottles, salt shakers – the lot. Costs for utensils vary. Remember, it’s best to have too many than not enough!
What other costs do I need to consider?
As well as equipment, there will be further costs to consider in your fit-out. If you intend to allow customers the option to eat in, you will need to leave a chunk of your budget for tables and chairs.
Other major considerations in the costs will be an approved ventilation system to meet UK regulations, along with a fat separator in your sewage lines and customer/staff toilets. You also need to buy the payment hardware including the credit card readers and receipt printers.
Equipment aside, the cost for refrigeration alone will be around 60% of your electricity consumption, so you need to be certain that the revenue you pull will be enough to sustain the bills and make a profit.
How can I save on the costs of fitting out a fish and chip shop?
Setting up a new fish and chip shop is a costly endeavour, but there are ways to do it on the cheap. The best option is to find either a partially finished project or refurbish an existing café or restaurant. You’ll save considerably on building and infrastructure costs and only have to budget for new equipment where needed and redecoration.
Whatever option you choose, you can find a range of qualified professionals with competitive pricing to help make your fish and chip shop dream a reality.
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