Finance for Fish and Chip Shops: A Complete Guide by Gable Asset Finance

1. Introduction

Fish and chip shops hold a special place in the UK’s food culture. With more than 10,000 outlets serving hundreds of millions of meals every year, this industry remains one of the most resilient areas of hospitality. Whether operating a small takeaway, a mid-sized restaurant, or a large high-street outlet, fish and chip shops offer strong profit margins—often around 50% on a portion—when run efficiently.

But starting or expanding a fish and chip shop comes with significant upfront and ongoing costs. From commercial fryers to specialist refrigeration, heated counters, and safety systems, the list of required equipment can quickly add up. The total bill for a full restaurant fit-out can run into tens or even hundreds of thousands of pounds, depending on location and scale.

That’s where Gable Asset Finance comes in. By spreading the cost of major purchases, providing tailored funding packages, and helping owners manage cash flow, Gable Asset Finance makes it possible for both new and established fish and chip businesses to thrive. This guide will walk you through the equipment you’ll need, typical costs, and the ways asset finance can support your journey.

2. The Cost of Outfitting a Fish and Chip Shop

The cost of fitting out a fish and chip shop varies widely. A small takeaway unit may require £30,000–£50,000, while a large restaurant with seating and premium equipment could need £150,000 or more. Several factors affect the overall budget:

• Location – Fit-outs in London and the South East are typically more expensive than those in the Midlands or North.
• Size of the unit – The bigger your shop, the more equipment, furniture, and signage you’ll need.
• Type of service – A simple takeaway requires less investment than a full-service restaurant with indoor seating.
• Condition of the premises – A newly built unit may require extensive installation, while an existing shop might already have ventilation, wiring, and drainage systems in place.

3. Essential Equipment for Fish and Chip Shops

Key Cooking Equipment

• Fryers – Commercial fryers are the heart of any fish and chip shop.
• Potato Equipment – A potato peeler saves hours of labour, while a chipper ensures consistent cuts.
• Batter Mixer – Large commercial mixers prepare batter in bulk, ensuring consistency.
• Chip Scuttles – Heated units designed to keep chips warm until served.
• Heated Display Counters – Showcase hot food such as fish, pies, and sausages.
• Refrigeration & Storage – Large fridges, freezers, and display fridges for stock and drinks.

Kitchen & Service Essentials

• Bain Maries – For holding and serving additional hot food items.
• Utensils – Scoops, tongs, knives, ladles, and serving tools.
• Microwaves – For reheating items quickly.
• Storage Units – Shelving, trays, and food-grade containers.

Takeaway & Safety Items

• Takeaway Containers – Paper or cardboard boxes for fish and chips.
• Condiments – Salt, vinegar, ketchup, and dispensers.
• Fire Safety – Alarms, extinguishers, and fire suppression systems.
• Food Safety Monitoring – Thermometers and automated monitoring systems.

4. Cost Breakdown of Major Equipment

• Frying Range – £10,000 to £30,000+ (supply and installation).
• Specialist Fish Fridges – £2,000–£6,000 each.
• Display Fridges – Starting at around £400.
• Potato Peeling Machines – Around £1,000.
• Chip Scuttles – Around £1,000 per unit.
• Heated Food Displays – £1,000–£2,000 depending on size.
• Utensils – Several hundred pounds for an initial setup.

5. How Asset Finance Helps

Purchasing all equipment upfront is unrealistic for most shop owners. Asset finance allows you to spread costs over months or years, making even the most expensive items affordable. Common options include:

• Hire Purchase – Pay in instalments and own the equipment at the end.
• Leasing – Use equipment while paying a monthly fee, with the option to upgrade later.
• Refinancing – Release capital tied up in existing equipment.
• Unsecured Business Loans – Quick funding for working capital needs without collateral.

6. Example Finance Packages

Small Takeaway Shop (£30,000–£50,000)

• Frying range
• Potato peeler & chipper
• Chip scuttle
• Basic refrigeration
• Utensils and takeaway packaging

Finance option: Hire Purchase over 3–5 years.

Medium Shop with Seating (£70,000–£100,000)

• Larger frying range
• Multiple refrigeration units
• Heated displays & Bain Maries
• Seating, tables, and signage

Finance option: Combination of leasing and asset finance.

Large Restaurant Fit-Out (£120,000–£150,000+)

• Premium multi-tank frying range
• Specialist fish storage
• Large heated displays
• Branded décor and high-capacity seating

Finance option: Structured finance package including asset finance, working capital loans, and refinancing.

7. Ongoing Costs and Finance Options

• Staff Wages – Working capital finance helps cover payroll.
• Utility Bills – Manage rising costs with cash flow loans.
• Insurance & Licensing – Spread the cost of essential cover.
• Marketing – Finance branding, signage, or digital campaigns.

8. Financing Growth & Expansion

Finance can support growth by funding:

• New equipment purchases
• Shop refurbishments
• Franchise opportunities
• Property purchases via commercial mortgages

9. Why Choose Gable Asset Finance

• Sector Knowledge – Expertise in the hospitality and catering industry.
• Wide Network – Access to multiple lenders.
• Tailored Solutions – Finance designed around your needs.
• Ongoing Support – Guidance throughout the process.

10. Getting Started

1. Initial Consultation – Discuss your plans and requirements.
2. Proposal – Receive tailored finance options.
3. Documentation – Provide business accounts, statements, and proof of ID.
4. Approval – Funding arranged quickly to get your project moving.

11. Conclusion

Opening or expanding a fish and chip shop is a rewarding but costly venture. With the right equipment and funding, your shop can thrive in a competitive market. Gable Asset Finance makes it possible to manage costs, spread payments, and grow with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• How much does it cost to set up a fish and chip shop?
  Anywhere from £30,000 for a small takeaway to £150,000+ for a large restaurant.
• Can finance cover second-hand equipment?
  Yes, asset finance can be arranged for both new and used items.
• Do I need a deposit to apply?
  Some options require a small deposit, while others may not.
• How long can I spread repayments?
  Typically 1–7 years, depending on the lender.
• What if I have poor credit history?
  Solutions are available even for businesses with impaired credit.
• Can I get finance for ongoing costs like wages or tax bills?
  Yes, through working capital and tax loans.
• What’s the difference between leasing and hire purchase?
  Hire Purchase lets you own the item at the end; Leasing allows use with upgrade options.
• Does Gable Asset Finance only work with new businesses?
  No, support is available for start-ups and established shops.
• How quickly can finance be arranged?
  In many cases, within a few days.
• How do I apply?
  Contact Gable Asset Finance with your business details and requirements.

There is no question that the market for fast food is highly competitive. Forecasts indicate that it will remain on a growth path and that the major fast food chains will continue to expand their number of outlets. So how does the independent fish & chip shop compete and thrive? The answer is invest in new equipment and technology.

We can finance all the equipment required to run a successful fish and chip shop including:

• Chippers
• Ranges
• Mixers
• Peelers
• Fish Fridges
• Refrigerated displays
• Heated displays
• Canopies
• Odour control Systems

We are one of the leading firms in the UK offering finance for chip shop including frying ranges and co-ordinated serving pieces. Call us today or apply online.