The Scottish seafood industry
The Scottish seafood industry comprises a modern fleet increasingly committed to sustainability fishing in one of the most biologically productive seas in the world. There is a strong tradition and heritage in the seafood industry in Scotland, which continues to grow through leading-edge marine research, innovation and technology.
Over 60 species are landed in Scotland, which helps to meet the demands of today’s global consumer and accounts for approximately 70 per cent of the total UK landings.
The scope of the seafood industry in Scotland
Peterhead is the UK’s largest fishing port, and Scotland’s modern processing sector comprises 230 companies, enjoying an annual turnover of £700 million. The Scottish seafood industry employs 12,000 people and is extremely important to coastal communities, supporting many related industries.
- The Scottish seafood industry is constantly adapting to meet the challenges and demands of the market.
- Businesses ranging from small sole traders to large multinational companies are involved in the seafood industry in Scotland.
- Scotland is one of the largest seafood producers in Europe.
- The seafood industry in Scotland is actively taking steps to increase the value of landings through improving quality, handling and traceability.
- The Scottish fleet focus is increasingly on sustainability and quality management, with 60 vessels in the Responsible Fishing Scheme.
Strengths of the Scottish seafood industry
More than 2000 boats fish Scotland’s 16,000 kilometres of beautiful, clean coastline, and make landings totalling over 440,000 tonnes per year. Outstanding raw materials are just one of the strengths of the seafood industry in Scotland. Others include:
- Integrated haulage and shipping services.
- High standards of employee training and vocational qualifications.
- A well managed and socially responsible industry with a strong heritage and tradition.
- The proximity of ports providing significant benefits in terms of direct supplies, cold storage transportation and labour.
- One of the most modern fishing fleets in Europe.
Opportunities within the seafood industry in Scotland
Increased added-value activity takes place through new product development, while opportunities are also arising in areas such as the transport of live seafood and the development of under-utilised species. Other areas of opportunity include:
- Farmed fish species being used to reduce supply shortages.
- Inward investment in the form of partnerships, joint ventures and strategic alliances.
- Developing niche opportunities based on supplying high-value products to discerning customers.
- Identification and development of new markets for langoustines, mussels and other Scottish seafood products.
- The growth of the health-enhancing foods sector.
Scottish food and drink are renowned for their quality across the world. Find out more about how the various Scottish food and drink sectors help sustain a vibrant and growing industry.