UK smoked fish industry receives funding boost

Funding will be used to develop a brand identity, interactive website and drive attendance at a series of specialist food events. The aim is to improve consumer awareness of the traditional smoking method and enhance the profile of this niche industry in the high-end retail and food service markets of the UK

The project has come about through collaboration of key industry partners across the supply chain including: Grimsby Fish Merchants Association, Alfred Enderby, Sealord (Caistor) Ltd, Seachill, John Ross Jr, Coln Valley, The Smokeyard Artisan Smokehouse, Arbroath Smokies and The Fish Mongers Company.

The project is led by the Grimsby Fish Merchants Association on behalf of the wider industry group. The GFMA's chief executive, Steve Norton, commented: "Traditionally smoked fish is a fantastic product that is often overlooked and undervalued by the consumer; this project will highlight the positive benefits and attract a new, younger consumer to a wonderful versatile product that is part of Britain's food heritage." 

The project is supported by funding from the European Fisheries Fund (EFF), administered by the UK's Marine Management Organisation and the Seafish Industry Project Fund, managed by the Sea Fish Industry Authority. 

Julie Snowden, project manager, for the Sea Fish Industry Authority, that supports all sectors of the seafood industry for a sustainable, profitable future, said: "It's great to be able to support this unique product and creative initiative which will encourage the consumer to consume more seafood which we are always striving to achieve".