NFFF and FASFA bridge the gap between production and consumption, ensuring every stage of the supply chain is represented.

Although they represent different parts of the seafood supply chain, the Frozen at Sea Fillets Association (FASFA) and the National Federation of Fish Friers (NFFF) have closely aligned interests. Their collaboration strengthens the entire seafood value chain—from catching fish to serving consumers.

Different roles, shared objectives

FASFA represents:

• Frozen-at-sea fishing companies.

• Vessel owners.

• Importers, suppliers and distributors of frozen-at-sea (FAS) cod and haddock and more recently other FAS species.

• The upstream seafood supply chain, focused on sustainable sourcing, product quality, and reliable supply.

NFFF represents:

• Independent fish and chip shop owners throughout the UK

• The foodservice and retail end of the supply chain

• Businesses that rely on consistent, high-quality seafood while advocating for industry standards, training, and government representation.

Why they work together

The two organisations recognise that the success of one depends on the success of the other.

• FASFA needs thriving fish and chip shops because they are the primary market for frozen-at-sea products.

• NFFF needs dependable seafood suppliers to ensure members receive premium-quality fish at consistent prices throughout the year.

This creates a natural partnership where both organisations support the long-term health of the UK's fish and chip industry.

How they complement one another

FASFA contributes

Sustainable sourcing

High-quality frozen-at-sea products

Supply chain expertise

Scientific evidence on fisheries

International fishing and distribution

NFFF contributes

Representation of fish friers

Industry training and business support

Consumer-facing market knowledge

Feedback on customer needs and market trends

Promotion of fish and chip businesses

Together they bridge the gap between production and consumption, ensuring every stage of the supply chain is represented.

Benefits to the seafood industry

Their collaboration delivers several industry-wide benefits:

• Supply security – Fish and chip shops have access to consistent supplies of cod and haddock and other FAS species throughout the year.

• Sustainability – Both organisations promote responsibly managed fisheries and evidence-based fisheries management.

• Quality assurance – Frozen-at-sea processing locks in freshness shortly after catch, helping maintain product quality while reducing waste.

• Stronger industry voice – By working together they can present unified positions to government on fisheries policy, trade, imports, sustainability, and regulation.

• Consumer confidence – Joint messaging helps educate consumers about the quality, provenance, and sustainability of frozen-at-sea fish.

Real-world collaboration

FASFA and NFFF have recently jointly collaborated with the Seafish Industry Authority to re-introduce support for our sector. Demonstrating how the interests of suppliers and fish friers align. Their evidence highlights the need for additional support with training, data and funding within the fish and chip sector. FASFA highlight the importance of maintaining secure international seafood supply chains for the nation's fish and chip industry.

Overall impact

Rather than competing, FASFA and NFFF represent different but interconnected parts of the same industry. FASFA focuses on supplying sustainable, high-quality seafood, while NFFF focuses on helping fish and chip businesses succeed. Their partnership creates a stronger, more resilient seafood sector by improving communication across the supply chain, supporting responsible fishing, influencing policy, maintaining high product standards, and protecting one of the UK's most iconic food industries.