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The Ceres Podcast

Food & Cooking Podcasts

In November 2018, Stelios Theocharous, the founder of Ceres | Pure Food Innovation (and someone who occasionally finds his keys on the first try), launched the Ceres Podcast. This groundbreaking platform has now become a gathering spot for like-minded co-hosts: • Mark Petrou, Petrou Bros • Kelly Barnes, Krispies • David Nicolaou, Auckley Friery • David Miller, Millers Fish & Chips Together, they embark on insightful conversations with the movers and shakers of the Food & Hospitality industry, forming the illustrious Podsquad. At the Ceres Podcast, we take our time. There's no rushing here - unless we're late for dinner. We're on a mission to uncover the deep-seated passions that motivate our guests, ranging from Chefs and Fish & Chip Shop Owners to Food Producers and Hoteliers, including everyone who makes the hospitality world spin. Our discussions are as varied as the ingredients in a gourmet dish, catering to anyone with a stake or interest in the bustling world of hospitality. If you're eager to learn from the experiences and stories that shape this industry, the Ceres Podcast awaits you. Dive into our world, where learning is served with a side of laughter.

Location:

United Kingdom

Description:

In November 2018, Stelios Theocharous, the founder of Ceres | Pure Food Innovation (and someone who occasionally finds his keys on the first try), launched the Ceres Podcast. This groundbreaking platform has now become a gathering spot for like-minded co-hosts: • Mark Petrou, Petrou Bros • Kelly Barnes, Krispies • David Nicolaou, Auckley Friery • David Miller, Millers Fish & Chips Together, they embark on insightful conversations with the movers and shakers of the Food & Hospitality industry, forming the illustrious Podsquad. At the Ceres Podcast, we take our time. There's no rushing here - unless we're late for dinner. We're on a mission to uncover the deep-seated passions that motivate our guests, ranging from Chefs and Fish & Chip Shop Owners to Food Producers and Hoteliers, including everyone who makes the hospitality world spin. Our discussions are as varied as the ingredients in a gourmet dish, catering to anyone with a stake or interest in the bustling world of hospitality. If you're eager to learn from the experiences and stories that shape this industry, the Ceres Podcast awaits you. Dive into our world, where learning is served with a side of laughter.

Language:

English

Contact:

0845 3711 522


Episodes
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#202: Bobby Joyce on Frozen-at-Sea Fish, Rising Prices & Industry Survival

2/6/2025
In this Masterclass Interview, we sit down with Bobby Joyce from Smales to discuss the real impact of shrinking fish quotas, rising prices, and supply chain pressures on the fish & chip industry. Fish & chip shop owners are feeling the pressure—fish prices are rising, supply chains are tightening, and businesses are struggling to stay profitable. In this episode, Bobby Joyce, a leading expert from Smales, breaks down what’s happening in the industry right now, why it’s happening, and—most importantly—what you can do about it. We tackle key questions, including: ✅ Why has the cod quota dropped to its lowest in 34 years? ✅ How are shops adapting to skyrocketing costs? ✅ Should you switch from cod to haddock—or something else entirely? ✅ What pricing strategies can help protect your margins? Join the Ceres Whatsapp Group -> https://bit.ly/CERESWA Download your FREE copy of the Fish & Tips E-Book and boost your business today. Join the discussion on the Ceres Podcast Facebook Group Episode Sponsor -> Ceres Fishcake Mix Check out the Ceres Calculators now! 📮Join the Ceres email list to keep updated and get monthly offers. 📧 To send your feedback or suggest a guest, email The Ceres Podcast at stelios@worldofceres.com

Duration:01:42:48

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#201 - From Fish Fryers to Viral Fame: Pricing, Social Media & The Future of Fish & Chips with Antony Akathiotis

2/6/2025
In this episode of The Ceres Podcast, Stelios Theocharous sits down with Antony Akathiotis, owner of Merchants Fish Bar in Bewdley & Halesowen, for a no-holds-barred conversation about running a successful fish & chip shop in today’s market. They dive into pricing strategies that too many shops are getting wrong, how to use smart calculations to protect profits, and why knowing your numbers is more crucial than ever. Antony shares how his team blew up on TikTok, amassing millions of views and turning social media into a customer-driving machine. Join the Ceres Whatsapp Group -> https://bit.ly/CERESWA Download your FREE copy of the Fish & Tips E-Book and boost your business today. Join the discussion on the Ceres Podcast Facebook Group Episode Sponsor -> Ceres P1 Chip Preparation Check out the Ceres Calculators now! 📮Join the Ceres email list to keep updated and get monthly offers. 📧 To send your feedback or suggest a guest, email The Ceres Podcast at stelios@worldofceres.com

Duration:02:01:47

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#190: Mark Petrou & Ryan Hughes – How Ryan Hughes Turned Struggle into Success

2/5/2025
Ryan Hughes went from washing dishes at 14 to running the UK’s best fish & chip shop in 2024. In this episode, he spills the secrets behind his rise, the game-changing moment during COVID-19, and how winning Fish & Chip Shop of the Year turned his business upside down (in the best way). Hard work, resilience, and a few surprises—don’t miss this one! Join the Ceres Whatsapp Group -> https://bit.ly/CERESWA Download your FREE copy of the Fish & Tips E-Book and boost your business today. Join the discussion on the Ceres Podcast Facebook Group Episode Sponsor -> www.ceres.shop Check out the Ceres Calculators now! 📮Join the Ceres email list to keep updated and get monthly offers. 📧 To send your feedback or suggest a guest, email The Ceres Podcast at stelios@worldofceres.com

Duration:01:25:16

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#199 – Fish Prices, Supply & The Future of Fish & Chips with Gary Warner

2/4/2025
What’s driving fish prices, and why should fish & chip shop owners be more concerned about supply than cost? In The Ceres Podcast Episode 199, Stelios and David Miller sit down with industry expert Gary Warner from Warners Fish Merchants for an unfiltered discussion on market volatility, fishing quotas, and the future of fish and chips. From debunking stockpiling myths to revealing how suppliers like Brim navigate the industry, this episode is packed with insights every shop owner needs to hear. Join the Ceres Whatsapp Group -> https://bit.ly/CERESWA Download your FREE copy of the Fish & Tips E-Book and boost your business today. Join the discussion on the Ceres Podcast Facebook Group Episode Sponsor -> Ceres Fishcake Mix Check out the Ceres Calculators now! 📮Join the Ceres email list to keep updated and get monthly offers. 📧 To send your feedback or suggest a guest, email The Ceres Podcast at stelios@worldofceres.com

Duration:01:42:47

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#198: The £1bn Blow to Hospitality, Greggs’ Sausage Roll Drama & The Future of Menus

1/30/2025
Stelios and David Nicolaou dive into the latest industry news with their signature mix of wit and wisdom. No topic is off-limits, from the £1bn National Insurance hike threatening hospitality businesses to Greggs’ controversial sausage roll price increase. They also explore how menu simplification could be the key to survival in a cost-conscious market. Expect sharp insights, real-world advice, and plenty of laughs. Join the Ceres Whatsapp Group -> https://bit.ly/CERESWA Download your FREE copy of the Fish & Tips E-Book and boost your business today. Join the discussion on the Ceres Podcast Facebook Group Episode Sponsor -> Ceres P1 Chip Preparation Formula Check out the Ceres Calculators now! 📮Join the Ceres email list to keep updated and get monthly offers. 📧 To send your feedback or suggest a guest, email The Ceres Podcast at stelios@worldofceres.com

Duration:01:42:13

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#197 - Mark Petrou & David Henley: The Grit Behind the Glory

1/30/2025
Host Mark Petrou sits down with David Henley of Henleys of Wivenhoe to explore the highs and lows of building a thriving fish & chip business. From his early days working in a seaside burger kiosk to running one of the UK’s most respected fish & chip shops, David shares the challenges, triumphs, and invaluable lessons learned along the way. They discuss surviving a devastating fire, mastering business strategy, and the importance of team investment—all with the signature humour and insight that makes this episode a must-listen. As an industry leader, mentor, and ambassador for Frymax, David’s influence extends beyond his shop, helping others refine their craft. Join the Ceres Whatsapp Announcment Group -> https://bit.ly/CERESWA Download your FREE copy of the Fish & Tips E-Book and boost your business today. Join the discussion on the Ceres Podcast Facebook Group Episode Sponsor -> Ceres Fishcake Mix Check out the Ceres Calculators now! 📮Join the Ceres email list to keep updated and get monthly offers. 📧 To send your feedback or suggest a guest, email The Ceres Podcast at stelios@worldofceres.com

Duration:01:36:15

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#196 - Breaking Barriers in the Nighttime Economy with Michael Kill

1/25/2025
Michael Kill, CEO of the NTIA (Night Time Industries Associaton), joins Stelios to discuss the challenges facing the UK’s nightlife industry, from overregulation to economic pressures, and shares his vision for its future. Don’t miss this enlightening conversation with one of the industry’s leading voices. Join the Ceres Whatsapp Group -> https://bit.ly/CERESWA Download your FREE copy of the Fish & Tips E-Book and boost your business today. Join the discussion on the Ceres Podcast Facebook Group Episode Sponsor -> www.ceres.shop 📮Join the Ceres email list to keep updated and get monthly offers. 📧 To send your feedback or suggest a guest, email The Ceres Podcast at stelios@worldofceres.com

Duration:01:39:05

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#194 - Rising Costs, Delivery Dilemmas, and Social Media with Cem Oktem & Charlie Collins

1/20/2025
Join Stelios on The Ceres Podcast Episode 195 as he chats with Charlie Collins of Frydales (two outlets in Leicester) and Cem Oktem of Oktem Kitchens (four outlets in the North West). They dive deep into the fish and chip industry, discussing everything from rising fish prices and delivery challenges to the impact of labour costs and social media on their businesses. With candid insights and a touch of humour, this episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about food, business, or the people behind the fryer. Join the Ceres Whatsapp Group -> https://bit.ly/CERESWA Download your FREE copy of the Fish & Tips E-Book and boost your business today. Join the discussion on the Ceres Podcast Facebook Group Episode Sponsor -> Ceres Fishcake Mix 📮Join the Ceres email list to keep updated and get monthly offers. 📧 To send your feedback or suggest a guest, email The Ceres Podcast at stelios@worldofceres.com

Duration:01:31:21

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#194: Simplifying Menus, Fish Pricing, and Industry Trends for 2025

1/14/2025
Stelios and co-hosts—David Miller, Mark Petrou, and David Nicolaou—dive into VAT policies, delivery trends, and the art of simplifying menus inspired by Pal’s Sudden Service. Explore fish pricing, stockpiling, and customer habits as the squad shares actionable tips for navigating today’s economic challenges—all wrapped in light-hearted banter. Join the Ceres Whatsapp Group -> https://bit.ly/CERESWA Download your FREE copy of the Fish & Tips E-Book and boost your business today. Join the discussion on the Ceres Podcast Facebook Group Episode Sponsor -> Ceres P1 Chip Preparation 📮Join the Ceres email list to keep updated and get monthly offers. 📧 To send your feedback or suggest a guest, email The Ceres Podcast at stelios@worldofceres.com

Duration:01:58:13

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#193: Stelios & Andrew Crook on the NFFF, Budget, and Industry Challenges

11/27/2024
Stelios is joined by Andrew Crook, President of the National Federation of Fish Friers, for a no-holds-barred conversation about the fish and chip industry. They discuss the challenges of running multiple shops, the heated debate over cash vs. card payments, and the pressing need for fair regulation to level the playing field. Andrew shares his journey, insights on government policies, and the future of this beloved British staple. Don’t miss this engaging episode packed with industry truths. Join the Ceres Whatsapp Group -> https://bit.ly/CERESWA Download your FREE copy of the Fish & Tips E-Book and boost your business today. Join the discussion on the Ceres Podcast Facebook Group Episode Sponsor -> Ceres P1 Chip Preparation 📮Join the Ceres email list to keep updated and get monthly offers. 📧 To send your feedback or suggest a guest, email The Ceres Podcast at stelios@worldofceres.com

Duration:01:57:03

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#192: Stelios talks to Tim Barnes and Paul Goodgame on Challenges, Innovation, and People Power

11/20/2024
n this episode of The Ceres Podcast, Stelios is joined by two leading voices in the fish and chip industry: Tim Barnes: Director of Krispies Fish & Chips (Exmouth & Exeter), known for his innovative approach and dedication to quality in every aspect of his business. Paul Goodgame: Managing Director of The Chesterford Group (Fishnchickn, Churchills, Toffs, The Boundary Fish & Chips), overseeing multiple brands and sites while championing growth and operational excellence. Together, they explore the challenges and opportunities facing fish and chip shops and the wider hospitality sector, including: The impact of extreme weather on customer habits, deliveries, and operations.The complexities of managing and motivating teams in an evolving industry.How innovation in technology, menu design, and offers can drive growth and efficiency.The economic pressures of rising wages, VAT structures, and increasing costs—and how businesses can adapt.The importance ofculture, leadership, and transforming young employees into confident team members. Join the Ceres Whatsapp Group -> https://bit.ly/CERESWA Download your FREE copy of the Fish & Tips E-Book and boost your business today. Join the discussion on the Ceres Podcast Facebook Group Episode Sponsor -> Ceres Curry Sauce 📮Join the Ceres email list to keep updated and get monthly offers. 📧 To send your feedback or suggest a guest, email The Ceres Podcast at stelios@worldofceres.com

Duration:01:50:16

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#191 -The News Review with Stelios & David Nicolaou

11/16/2024
With the UK budget still fresh in their minds, David & Stelios unpack a lot of what was said and how it might affect businesses in the UK. Download your FREE copy of the Fish & Tips E-Book and boost your business today. Join the discussion on the Ceres Podcast Facebook Group. Episode Sponsor -> Ceres Deep Fryer Cleaner 📮Join the Ceres email list to keep updated and get monthly offers. 📧 To send your feedback or suggest a guest, email The Ceres Podcast at stelios@worldofceres.com

Duration:01:25:49

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#190 – David & Stelios Dig Into Potato Market Insights with Stuart Mitchell & Patrick Clabon

11/8/2024
In this Masterclass discussion episode, David and Stelios welcome Stuart Mitchell of Mitchells Potatoes and Patrick Clabon from HG Bliss Farms, a farmer in Norfolk-Cambridgeshire. We discuss market insights and trends impacting the industry. For an even deeper look, check out our blog's full Ceres Potato Market Report, featuring exclusive insights from Stuart, Patrick, and other industry leaders. If you have listened to this episode, what do you think? Let us know at info@worldofceres.com Download your FREE copy of the Fish & Tips E-Book and boost your business today. Join the discussion on the Ceres Podcast Facebook Group. Episode Sponsor -> Ceres P1 Chip Preparation Formula 📮Join the Ceres email list to keep updated and get monthly offers. 📧 To send your feedback or suggest a guest, email The Ceres Podcast at stelios@worldofceres.com

Duration:01:42:17

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#189 - Unpacking Labour’s Budget with Kate Nicholls, CEO of UKHospitality

11/5/2024
In this episode, I sit with Kate Nicholls, Chief Executive of UK Hospitality, at a pivotal moment—just after Labour’s first budget. Kate and I have connected over some crucial events: Brexit, the COVID crisis, the recent general election, and now, this budget, which has stirred up strong opinions across the board. We closely examine what this budget means for businesses, especially in the hospitality and farming sectors. Spoiler: it’s not exactly winning any popularity contests. From the left and the right, the consensus seems to be that it’s missed the mark, with each side feeling it either didn’t go far enough or went too far. This especially hits home for farmers, who feel unfairly targeted by inheritance tax changes. Farmers know how to mobilize and make their voices heard, and it leaves me thinking—should we all be doing the same to push for real change? Thank you for your feedback on our recent episodes—your thoughts on these heavy-hitting topics, especially around VAT, have been invaluable. It’s clear these conversations matter to you, and I’m thrilled they’re resonating. If you have listened to this episode, what do you think? Let us know at info@worldofceres.com Download your FREE copy of the Fish & Tips E-Book and boost your business today. Join the discussion on the Ceres Podcast Facebook Group. Episode Sponsor -> Ceres Fishcake Mix 📮Join the Ceres email list to keep updated and get monthly offers. 📧 To send your feedback or suggest a guest, email The Ceres Podcast at stelios@worldofceres.com

Duration:00:56:34

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#188 - John Webber, Head of Rating at Colliers

11/1/2024
Stelios is joined by John Webber, a true authority on business rates with over 35 years of expertise. As Head of Rating at Colliers, John leads a top advisory team and works closely with MPs, ministers, and the media to advocate for fairer rates. In this episode, we explore why meaningful reform remains elusive, the impact of recent budgets, and what lies ahead for UK businesses. Download your FREE copy of the Fish & Tips E-Book and boost your business today. Join the discussion on the Ceres Podcast Facebook Group. Episode Sponsor -> Ceres Deep Fryer Cleaner 📮Join the Ceres email list to keep updated and get monthly offers. 📧 To send your feedback or suggest a guest, email The Ceres Podcast at stelios@worldofceres.com

Duration:01:12:15

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#187 - Lesley Graves & Des Anastasiou from Burton Road Chippy in Lincoln

10/31/2024
In this episode, Mark Petrou sits down with two close friends of Ceres, Lesley Graves and first-time guest Des Anastasiou from the renowned Burton Road Chippy in Lincoln. Lesley, a familiar voice from Episode 82 (where she joined Kelly Barnes and Jodie Zeniou), returns with fresh insights into the industry. If you haven’t yet, go back and listen—there’s plenty of wisdom in that episode, too! Lesley and Des have been avid supporters of Ceres from day one, and we’re grateful for their honesty and dedication to the industry. Over the years, they’ve taken part in numerous award competitions. Lesley also serves as a Regional Director at the National Federation of Fish Friers, where she champions the industry tirelessly. This episode is packed with industry insights, heartfelt reflections, and plenty of laughs. Download your FREE copy of the Fish & Tips E-Book and boost your business today. Join the discussion on the Ceres Podcast Facebook Group. Episode Sponsor -> Ceres Curry Sauce 📮Join the Ceres email list to keep updated and get monthly offers. 📧 To send your feedback or suggest a guest, email The Ceres Podcast at stelios@worldofceres.com

Duration:01:29:53

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#186 - Les Howard, VAT Specialist

10/31/2024
Les Howard, now semi-retired, has worked as a VAT consultant, focusing primarily on helping businesses, charities, and churches navigate the complex world of Value Added Tax (VAT). With years of experience, Les has represented clients in disputes with HMRC, including Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) and Tax Tribunals. We welcome Les back for his second guest appearance on the Ceres Podcast to discuss VAT investigations. If you have not listened to Les on episode 181, listen. It's worth it. Download your FREE copy of the Fish & Tips E-Book and boost your business today. Join the discussion on the Ceres Podcast Facebook Group. Episode Sponsor -> Ceres Pre-Dust Number Two 📮Join the Ceres email list to keep updated and get monthly offers. 📧 To send your feedback or suggest a guest, email The Ceres Podcast at stelios@worldofceres.com

Duration:01:37:27

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#185 - The News Review with Special Guest Jamie Russo

10/29/2024
Stelios is joined by the award-winning newcomer and young fish frier, Jamie Russo, from Redcloak Fish Bar in Stonehaven. With David taking a brief break, Jamie and I will be diving into some exciting industry updates. Don’t worry—David will be back next week to unpack the budget with us, so plenty of insightful analysis is coming! If you have listened to this episode, what do you think? Let us know at info@worldofceres.com Download your FREE copy of the Fish & Tips E-Book and boost your business today. Join the discussion on the Ceres Podcast Facebook Group. Episode Sponsor -> Natural Degreaser 📮Join the Ceres email list to keep updated and get monthly offers. 📧 To send your feedback or suggest a guest, email The Ceres Podcast at stelios@worldofceres.com

Duration:01:25:23

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#184 - Mark Petrou talks to Austen Dack from ChippyChat

10/22/2024
In this episode, Mark Petrou sits down with Austen Dack, the editor-in-chief of ChippyChat magazine. They delve into Austen’s career journey before joining the fish and chip industry, discuss the magazine’s role in the community, and highlight key events like the Isle of Ely Open Day. They also discuss the upcoming Chip Barons Ball on Sunday, 8th December 2024—be sure to grab tickets for yourself, your family, and your team! Download your FREE copy of the Fish & Tips E-Book and boost your business today. Join the discussion on the Ceres Podcast Facebook Group. Episode Sponsor -> Ceres Curry Sauce 📮Join the Ceres email list to keep updated and get monthly offers. 📧 To send your feedback or suggest a guest, email The Ceres Podcast at stelios@worldofceres.com

Duration:01:26:27

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#183 - Peter Farrell, Epsom Social Food Hall + Food Motion Network

10/18/2024
Peter Farrell is a man whose journey through the peaks and valleys of the hospitality industry is truly remarkable. Starting his career at just seven years old, Peter worked his way into some of the world’s most renowned kitchens, including The Fat Duck with Heston Blumenthal. His path led him globally, from Michelin-starred restaurants to senior management roles in Sir Terence Conran’s restaurant group. But life took an unexpected turn when Peter faced immense personal challenges—losing his eyesight, battling two brain tumours, and enduring chemotherapy—all while grappling with the loss of his brother to suicide. Despite these hardships, Peter’s resilience and determination propelled him forward. He rebuilt his life, launching successful ventures like Epsom Social Food Hall and the Food Motion Network. Today, Peter is not only a leader in thehospitality industry but also an ambassador for Hospitality Action. His story of reinvention and courage will inspire anyone, no matter where they are in their journey. Download your FREE copy of the Fish & Tips E-Book and boost your business today. Join the discussion on the Ceres Podcast Facebook Group. Episode Sponsor -> Ceres Natural Degreaser 📮Join the Ceres email list to keep updated and get monthly offers. 📧 To send your feedback or suggest a guest, email The Ceres Podcast at stelios@worldofceres.com

Duration:01:22:59