Scottish shellfish sector has a bright future

Stephen Cameron won the award in recognition of his tremendous work in ensuring the development of SSMG – a co-operative of mussel and oyster farmers - into one of the UK’s leading seafood companies, combined with his important overall contribution in helping promote the Scottish shellfish sector.

“I am thrilled and feel very humbled to have won this award,” he said. “The Scottish shellfish sector is a vibrant and dynamic industry and I feel honoured to have played a part in its development. I never cease to be amazed by the dedication and enthusiasm of those who work in the industry, and this is the driving force that will ensure a successful future.

“Scotland produces some of the best seafood in the world and this award represents a major vote of confidence in the Scottish shellfish industry. I am excited about both the future prospects for SSMG and the Scottish shellfish sector as a whole. “

Stephen Cameron has over 20 years’ experience working in the aquaculture and seafood industries, having joined the Scottish Shellfish Marketing Group (SSMG) as managing director five years ago. Since his appointment, turnover and volume sales of members’ mussels have increased significantly, with a major highlight being the successful transfer last year of the processing operation into a new state-of-the-art facility in Bellshill, Lanarkshire.

He is a keen advocate and pioneer of sustainable development, with SSMG mussels having attained both Friend of the Sea and Marine Stewardship Council certification. Cameron is also on the management committee of the Association of Scottish Shellfish Growers and is a member of the Scottish Government’s Shellfish Forum. He is passionate about communicating the superb quality of Scottish seafood to the younger generation and is an active participant in the acclaimed Seafood for Schools project.

Cameron said: “The development of SSMG’s new processing facility is an integral part of the company’s strategic plan for further expansion by bringing Scottish shellfish to the tables of a whole new generation of consumers through a diverse range of innovative products.”