A Fort Augustus fish and chip shop has been named the winner of a major UK wide industry award, earning national recognition for quality, consistency and commitment to the craft.
Monster Fish and Chips Co has been announced as the winner of the Peter Hill Award 2025, an accolade presented by Middleton Foods to recognise outstanding new talent in the fish and chip industry.
Based in the heart of Fort Augustus, the traditional takeaway impressed judges with its focus on quality ingredients, high standards, and a clear passion for the trade.
The judging panel described Monster Fish and Chips Co as a standout winner in a fiercely competitive field, selecting the business for what they said was exceptional consistency and dedication to excellence.
The award includes a prize package valued at more than £10,000, offering a range of professional development opportunities, industry support, and bespoke products designed to help the business grow.
Daniel and Claire Sandham, owners of Monster Fish and Chips Co, said:
“We are incredibly proud and honoured to receive the Peter Hill Award 2025.
“It’s a privilege to be recognised within the fish and chip industry so early in our journey, especially among so many dedicated and talented professionals.
“This award means a great deal and reinforces our commitment to maintaining the highest quality and standards in everything we do.
“I’d also like to thank our team, suppliers and industry partners for their continued support and collaboration.”
Ryan Baker, Sales Manager at Middleton Foods, said:
“We’re absolutely thrilled to announce Daniel, Claire, and their fantastic team at Monster Fish and Chips Co as the very deserving winners of the Peter Hill Award 2025.
“The competition this year was incredibly strong once again, with so many outstanding entries across the board.
“However, the judges were particularly impressed by Monster’s exceptional quality, consistency, and dedication to excellence, values that truly embody the spirit of this award.
“Huge congratulations to the whole team on this well earned recognition.”
Alongside the prestige of the award, the prize includes £1,000 of Middleton Foods stock, a bespoke own label batter mix, training places at the KFE School of Frying Excellence, one year membership of the National Federation of Fish Friers, and mentoring with industry experts.
The prize package also includes support for National Fish and Chip Day 2026 and tickets to the Fish and Chip Shop of the Year Awards, including accommodation and travel.
Monster Fish and Chips Co was selected from a shortlist that included businesses from Blackpool, Beauly, Durham and Ayr, with all finalists recognised for their high standards and potential.
The Peter Hill Award was launched in memory of Middleton Foods former chief executive Peter Hill, celebrating his lifelong passion for the fish and chip industry and his commitment to nurturing new talent.
Judging was carried out by an independent panel of industry experts including Calum Richardson, Fred Capel, Nigel Hodgson and Nikki Williams.
For Fort Augustus, the win places a local business firmly on the national map, highlighting Highland food businesses that are competing and succeeding at the highest level.
For further information on The Peter Hill Award, please click HERE
