Proud to B first: Aquascot becomes Scotland's first B Corp seafood processor

Highlands seafood processor Aquascot has today announced its certification as a B Corporation (B Corp), becoming the first Scotland seafood processor to achieve the globally recognised standard for social and environmental performance. 

Headquartered in Alness, Ross-shire, Aquascot has been the primary supplier of premium Scottish salmon and trout to upmarket food retailer Waitrose since 2003, and was named Waitrose Own Brand Supplier of the Year 2026.

Aquascot managing director John Housego said: “Aquaculture is the fastest-growing food production sector globally, providing a vital source of healthy protein. However, operating responsibly requires tackling industry challenges head-on. Achieving B Corp certification proves that commercial success, high animal welfare, and rigorous environmental management can go hand in hand.

“From enforcing 100% farm-level auditing across our supply base to achieving zero waste to landfill and setting ambitious targets to cut food waste by 60% by 2030, we want to lead by example and show retail and foodservice partners what responsible seafood processing looks like.”

Employee ownership

In addition to environmental credentials, B Corp certification evaluates a company’s impact on its workforce and local community. Aquascot has been in 100% employee ownership for a decade, in its 200-plus staff, known as partners, have a clear stake in the governance and success of the business.

Waitrose is also employee-owned as part of the John Lewis Partnership, which is the UK’s largest employee-owned business, although neither company is a B Corp.

“Being located in Alness, north of Inverness, our business is deeply rooted in the local Highland community,” Housego said. “As an employee-owned B Corp, every person here has a voice. We hope this recognition inspires others across Scotland and the UK to join us in shaping the future of sustainable food.”

An example for all

Jake Pickering, head of agriculture, aquaculture and fisheries at Waitrose & Partners, said Aquascot had consistently championed the highest standards in animal welfare and environmental stewardship.

"Achieving B Corp certification is a fantastic milestone that reinforces their leadership in responsible aquaculture and demonstrates what is possible for the wider UK food industry.”

Chris Turner, chief executive of B Lab UK, which certifies B Corp companies in the UK, said: “Welcoming Aquascot to the B Corp community is hugely exciting. Its commitment to doing business differently will be an inspiration to others and will help spread the notion that success in business is as much about people and planet as it is profit.”