Paul Williams, chairman of frying range manufacturer KFE, was awarded the Outstanding Contribution to Industry Award at the 2025 National Fish & Chip Awards in London yesterday.

One of the sector's most prestigious accolades, the award is voted for by those in the industry and recognises Paul’s exceptional dedication, innovation and passion for the sector.

Paul started KFE in 1996, bringing Kiremko frying ranges to the UK fish and chip sector for the first time, offering operators a far faster and more efficient way to fry. Since then, Paul has invested in a dedicated service department, bringing on board 12 fully qualified engineers, and opened the School of Frying Excellence, a premier training centre that has since trained over 2,000 fish and chip shop operators. Through events, open days, and networking opportunities, Paul has continued to support businesses across the sector. He was also the driving force behind KFE becoming the industry’s first carbon neutral business in 2023.

Kiremko has become the top choice for hundreds of award-winning fish and chip businesses, solidifying KFE’s reputation as an industry leader. As a result, the company has expanded to a 30-strong team, with Paul’s son, daughter, and son-in-law playing key roles in the business.

Reflecting on his achievements, Paul says:

“With the exception of family occasions, yesterday was the proudest day of my life. To be acknowledged by my peers and added to the list of industry icons is an honour beyond belief."

“From starting in my first fish and chip shop in 1978 to forming KFE in 1996 in a bedroom above a fish and chip shop, to yesterday’s awards, it’s been an incredible journey. Like most journeys, it’s had its ups and downs, but if you truly believe in something, then occasionally, there is that pot of gold at the end of the rainbow.”

During the ceremony, Paul’s strong emphasis on family values was highlighted, an ethos he believes is a contributing factor in his success, adding:

“I sadly lost my mum recently, and she and my dad when he was still with us, always instilled in me the importance of family values. I hope that shines through when people deal with KFE.”

Also key has been Paul’s desire to prioritise building long-term relationships with both customers and suppliers. “We are not looking for that one-off, short-term sales,” he says.

“When a deal is signed, that’s just the beginning of a long-term partnership. We support with training but will also regularly visit or be at the end of a phone to offer our customers any advice or guidance needed.”

Having witnessed the industry evolve through challenges such as the introduction of VAT, increased competition, Brexit and the war in Ukraine, Paul is very much optimistic about its future. “Standing in a room of passionate, quality operators and suppliers, a room of winners, I know the future of fish and chips is bright. We may need to adapt and evolve but fish and chips will always be Britain's number one food choice.”

Paul was presented with his accolade by awards host and TV presenter Matt Baker, and Andrew Crook, president of the industry trade body National Federation of Fish Friers. Andrew comments:

“The Outstanding Achievement award is a way of recognising those who have truly shaped the future of the fish and chip industry. Paul is held in high regard for his commitment to making sure fish and chip shops and restaurants can access the vast knowledge he and his team have. The business ’incredible training programme and state-of-the-art frying equipment ensure that chippies throughout the UK and beyond are delivering quality in every bite."

“Paul has built an amazing reputation both as an individual and a businessman who gives back to others so selflessly. We, as the fish and chip sector, are fortunate to have such a wonderful person in our midst.