New digital menu systems from BD Signs & BDigital have already increased sales of sides by 10% at Central Fish Bar while updated signage has given the takeaway more curb appeal
Central Fish Bar in Kinross has been in the Andreucci family since 1989, starting with Donato’s grandfather. In the early 2000s it passed to his father and, most recently, to him in 2024. Taking over a family business is a significant responsibility, and Donato acknowledges the “big shoes to fill”.
“It’s a lot to live up to,” he says. “I’ve always worked in the business, but taking full control is different.”
One of the first changes Donato made was to upgrade the frying range from four pans to five, something which quickly triggered a full-scale transformation. As a self-professed “tech freak”, Donato always wanted digital menu screens but needed a practical and customer-friendly setup.
“I’ve always believed menus should be facing you when you walk in,” he explains. “Because of layout previously, the old menus were down the sides of the shop, but with the new frying range running across the back of the shop, I could now accommodate them.”
Installing eight digital menu screens above the new range, they have already led to significant upselling opportunities. “They sell the product for you,” says Donato. “It’s only been four weeks since we launched but you can see people noticing things they didn’t before because they stand out. Side orders like curry sauce, peas, beans, mozzarella sticks, coleslaw, tartare sauce have gained at least 10% sales overall. They are all the things that you make your profit margin on. They’re the things you want to be selling.”
The shop also features new LED-illuminated exterior signage, which gives a soft glow to enhance visibility without being intrusive to neighbours. “I did check with my neighbour across the road,” Donato says. “He told me it wasn’t dazzling or intrusive – it just looks great. That was important to me.”
Working with BD Signs from design to installation, the team provided valuable guidance on the best placement and functionality for both the signage and digital menus.
“Barry and the team at BD Signs were fantastic,” Donato says. “I didn’t even consider going elsewhere. I’ve always believed in getting the best, and Barry is the best at what he does.”
The transformation has received overwhelmingly positive feedback from customers as well as Donato’s grandfather, who at 82 is proud to see the business still flourishing. “Every time he walks in, he cries,” says Donato. “I don’t think he ever thought I’d take it this far. He said he was proud of me and that gives me courage to move forward. I’m a big believer in innovation – you’ve got to keep on top of technology and moving forward nowadays.”
BDSigns and BDigital 0115 979 4330 www.bdsignsnottingham.co.uk
