For Antony and Lucy Akatheotis, owners of Midlands-based Merchants Fish & Chip Shop, building a successful business has always been about quality, consistency and strong relationships.
The husband-and-wife team operate multiple outlets, including their site in Bewdley, and have proudly worked with Middleton Foods across two generations of their family business. Today, they continue to rely on Middleton Foods to meet the continuous and growing popularity of their fish and chip offering.
A key part of that longstanding partnership has been the support of Middleton Foods representative Dean Baker, who has become a trusted extension of the business over the years as Antony explains: “Dean has always been there for us. He’s not just a supplier representative; he’s someone who genuinely cares about our success. Whenever we’ve needed support, advice or help with new ideas, Dean has been there. That’s incredibly valuable in this industry.”
The relationship reflects the shared family values that underpin both businesses, Lucy adds: “We’re a family business and Middleton Foods is a family business, there’s a real understanding of what matters – trust, loyalty and looking after people. We’ve worked with Middleton Foods through two generations, and that continuity means a lot to us.”
The strength of the partnership has extended beyond products and service. The business was chosen as the filming location for Middleton Foods’ infamous Batter Boys video, showcasing the quality, expertise (and fun!) Middleton Foods gives to fish and chip operations across the UK. More recently, Merchants has gained widespread attention through the viral success of its much-loved Chip Shop Diva, bringing further recognition to the business and the wider fish and chip industry.
For Antony, consistency remains one of the biggest advantages of working with Middleton Foods. “Our customers expect the same great quality every time they visit, whether it’s our own-label batter mix or our curry sauce. Middleton Foods helps us deliver that delicious consistency every time.”
As the business continues to grow, Antony and Lucy remain committed to the values that have guided them from the beginning: family, quality and partnerships built to last. And with Dean Baker and The Batter Boys continuing to support their journey, the future looks brighter than ever.
Middleton Foods 01902 608122 https://middletonfoods.com
Recent Posts
- Nine in 10 children fail to meet recommended weekly fish intake
- Office workers turn to homemade lunches to curb on-the-go spending
- JJ Foodservice launches AI price comparison tool
- UKHospitality calls for ‘moment for change’ ahead of Budget
- Q Partnership urges shops to put chips centre stage for National Chip Week
