Stones Fish and Chips on Horn Lane in Acton has been named among the finalists for a national award recognising excellence in staff training and development.
The Acton chippy has been shortlisted in the Training and Development category of the 2026 National Fish & Chip Awards, organised by the National Federation of Fish Friers (NFFF). Now in its 38th year, the awards put businesses through multiple rounds designed to examine how they operate in detail, from standards and systems to the way teams are supported day to day.
The Training and Development category recognises fish and chip shops that invest in their staff from the outset, including structured inductions, ongoing training and opportunities to build skills and progress into leadership roles.
Amine Chaouche, owner and managing director of Stones Fish & Chips, told EALING.NEWS: “At Stones Fish & Chips, we see work as more than a job — it’s a place to grow. Many of our team are in their first workplace, so from day one we create a calm, respectful welcome.”
Mr Chaouche added: “We explain why we exist, why standards matter, and invite people into what we describe as a dojo — a place to practise, learn, and improve, not just to get through a shift. Mistakes are treated as learning opportunities, not failures. We keep our team motivated through clear roles, simple systems, and steady responsibility, so everyone knows what’s expected and can see their own development, step by step from preparation to service and cooking.
“Being a finalist means a great deal to us. It’s recognition that investing time, patience, and care into people really matters, and I’m very proud of the team for earning this together.”
Stones is one of three finalists nationally, alongside Bells Fish and Chips in Framwellgate Moor, County Durham, and Yarm Road Fish and Chips in Darlington. Taylors in Stockport, Greater Manchester, is currently ranked number one in the category.
Andrew Crook, president of the National Federation of Fish Friers and one of the event’s organisers, said: “Fish and chip shops are often the first place of employment for many young people so it’s important to give their careers a great foundation to build on. A workplace where levelling up is encouraged will be one that thrives.”
The winners of the National Fish & Chip Awards will be announced later in 2026.
