Aquascot named as Waitrose own brand supplier of the year

Aquascot, the employee-owned Scottish seafood processor behind Waitrose’s premium Scottish salmon and trout range, has been named Waitrose Own Brand Supplier of the Year 2026.

The award recognises Aquascot’s long-standing commitment to quality, innovation and partnership and marks the first time the Highland-based business has received the honour in more than 30 years of supplying the retailer. Aquascot first started supplying Waitrose in 1993 and has been a permanent dedicated supplier since 2003.

The salmonid processor said it was selected from a highly competitive field of suppliers spanning multiple product categories and regions.

Consistent high quality

Headquartered in Alness, Ross-shire, Aquascot provides Waitrose’s full range of own brand Scottish salmon products, alongside premium Scottish trout. The business has built its reputation on delivering consistently high-quality, responsibly sourced seafood while maintaining close and collaborative relationships throughout the supply chain.

Aquascot said the award is a significant achievement not only for the company, but also for the Highlands and Scotland's seafood sector, demonstrating the role that regional businesses continue to play in supplying some of the UK's leading retailers.

Maddy Wilson, director of own brand at Waitrose, said: “Aquascot earns this award for exceptional partnership, dedication and collaboration, bringing consistently high-quality products that truly do the Waitrose own brand proud.”

Shared ownership

With 224 partner employees, Aquascot is one of Scotland's largest employee-owned businesses, with a culture built around shared ownership, accountability and long-term thinking. The company believes this approach has played a key role in fostering the commitment, expertise, and attention to detail that underpin its success.

The award follows a strong period for the business, which continues to invest in its people, facilities, and customer partnerships while strengthening its position as a trusted supplier of premium Scottish seafood.

Andy Wilson, commercial director at Aquascot, said: “We’re incredibly proud to be named Waitrose Own Brand Supplier of the Year. With our long-standing relationship, this award reflects our shared commitment to quality and our passion for showcasing both the strength of our employee-owned business and the very best of the Highlands on a national stage.”