Scotland aiming to be catch of the day in Boston

A delegation of some of Scotland’s top fish and seafood companies is set to make its mark on North America this week, as Team Scotland sets off for the International Boston Seafood Show.

Companies including MacDuff, St James Smokehouse, Wester Ross and Grieg Seafood Hjaltland will be among those showcasing their products on the Scotland stand at the show – the largest seafood trade show in North America.

Fish and seafood exports to the US have flourished in recent years, and with the US representing Scotland’s number one market for salmon exports, this is a huge opportunity for Scottish companies to capture a share of the North American market.

The delegation of companies will be led by Scottish Development International, in partnership with industry leadership organisation Scotland Food & Drink. Trade body Scottish Salmon Producers’ Organisation (SSPO) and Scottish Quality Salmon, the manaqement and promotional body for Label Rouge Scottish Salmon, will also be represented at the show, and all have been working hard to help companies prepare to take advantage of the opportunities presented by this show.

• St James Smokehouse, a previous winner of the ‘best new product’ award at the show, is choosing this platform to launch its latest retail product for the North American market – its SmOAKed Salmon Trio; a pack containing three of the company’s most distinguished cures.

• After doubling exports to the US in the last year, Wester Ross Fisheries will, for the first time, be promoting its ‘Hand Reared Scottish Salmon’ to the North American market.

• Macduff Shellfish, the UK’s largest shellfish processor, is set to exhibit for the first time at the show and will focus on scallops and prawns in a move designed to expand the company's business in the US.

Commenting, Anne MacColl, chief executive of Scottish Development International, said: “Major exhibitions like this offer a great platform for Scottish companies to showcase their products and services to an influential international audience. Events like the Boston Seafood Show and the business outcomes it delivers are a key element of our international trade strategy. It’s great to see these companies really upping their game through their export plans and, with our support, they will absolutely be well placed to capitalise on the opportunities presented by the North American market.”

Scott Landsburgh, chief executive, Scottish Salmon Producers’ Organisation and Scottish Quality Salmon, said: “The US is the single largest overseas market for Scottish salmon. As it imports over 90 per cent of its seafood, about half of which is farm-raised, the popularity of sustainably farmed Scottish salmon reflects the confidence that US buyers place on the quality, taste and welfare of our fish.

“Salmon is the second most popular seafood in the US, with a market value of £1 billion ($1.7 billion). We hope to increase awareness of our offering and grow market share during the show.”

James Withers, chief executive of Scotland Food & Drink, said: "Salmon and seafood account for over half of Scotland's food exports. They are fast becoming our star players, developing an increasing international footprint as our reputation for quality salmon and seafood spreads even further around the globe.

“We are seeking to double our food and drink exports from Scotland over a decade and with the united approach amongst producers, industry bodies and government, this ambition can be realised. The US is a key growth market for Scottish produce and the show is another important milestone in our efforts.”