Rising haddock costs force Maritime fish and chip shops to raise prices

Fish and chip businesses across Canada's Maritime provinces are facing difficult decisions as the cost of haddock skyrockets, forcing price increases for customers. The price surge stems from a drastic reduction in haddock fishing quotas, which Fisheries and Oceans Canada implemented by more than 50 percent in key areas of Nova Scotia and New Brunswick this past spring. This measure was a response to declining fish stocks, but it has created a significant financial strain on local eateries. Faizal Junus, owner of Fredie's Fantastic Fishhouse in Halifax, described the dramatic price jump. "In a matter of a week or two, it went up 40 percent. Our supplier maintained the price for about a week, so now, this week it’s skyrocketed," he said. Junus noted that haddock, which cost $6 a pound a couple of years ago, now ranges from $15 to $35. This leaves businesses with a razor-thin profit margin, pushing them to raise prices despite concerns about affordability for their customers. "The cost profit margin is very thin now, it’s almost gone. So do we keep the same price, or do we raise the price? We have to raise the price. But I want to keep it reasonable," he explained. He plans to discuss the issue with his long-term staff. Similarly, Willman’s Fish and Chips, an 80-year-old Halifax institution, is also implementing price hikes. Owner Lucien Nehme expressed his distress, stating, "It’s very hard when I see them paying this price, and I must put the price up. For this reason, I don’t know how we’re going to continue." Nehme also highlighted that the rising costs extend beyond seafood, affecting oil, propane, insurance, and property taxes. He hopes for government intervention and worries about the impact of the end of the tourist season on small businesses, questioning the affordability for local families, as three two-piece fish and chips meals now cost $85.

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In a matter of a week or two, it went up 40 percent. Our supplier maintained the price for about a week, so now, this week it’s skyrocketed.