A fish and chip shop in Weymouth is one of three stores shortlisted for the Marketing Innovation Award at the 2020 National Fish and Chip Awards.

Fish 'n' Fritz, on Market Street, is up against fellow finalists Flyde Fish Bar, in Lancashire, and Shap Chippy in Cumbria.

The Marketing Innovation Award recognises innovative marketing campaigns, effective social media content, creative public relations and strong community engagement strategies. The eateries are judged based on their marketing and promotional activity from the last 12 months.

The award is sponsored by national pie brand Pukka, which this year launched its biggest ever campaign to drive footfall into fish and chip businesses across the country.

Isaac Fisher, general manager at Pukka, said: "Ever since we first started making and baking pies in 1963, fish and chip shops have been – and always will be – at the heart of our story. The quality of their marketing and promotional activity is key to growth and we’re thrilled to have the opportunity to recognise fish and chip businesses that lead the way in creativity and innovation, setting a high standard for their industry peers to aspire to."

Organised by public body Seafish, the National Fish and Chips Awards is a prestigious annual competition which celebrates excellence in the fish and chip industry.

Marcus Coleman, chief executive officer at Seafish, said: "Competition for customers has intensified with the increasingly wide variety of takeaway food businesses across the UK. All of the shortlisted finalists have demonstrated truly unique marketing strategies, creative thinking and the ingenuity required to set their businesses apart from competitors."

He added: "While selling a great portion of fish and chips is the cornerstone for any business in the trade, those who have harnessed the power of effective marketing are really reaping the rewards in a fiercely competitive industry."

Fish 'n' Fritz was opened by Paul Hay in 1997 and has since won countless awards, becoming a firm favourite with locals and visitors alike. Marketing innovation is one of 14 categories at the awards, with others including best newcomer, best service, and best multiple operator. Winners of all groups will be announced at the 32nd National Fish & Chip Awards Ceremony in London on January 23, 2020.

To view the shortlist for each award, visit www.seafish.org/article/finalists-and-winners.