Scots set sights on Boston

SCOTTISH salmon producers are in Boston this week in a bid to boost their exports to the US.

Following a difficult 2015, when exchange rates hampered exports and companies lost sales in the States, the Scots are confident that they can grow their market share again. Previously, USA had been the largest export market for salmon with year on year growth, in excess of £200m in 2014.

Scott Landsburgh, chief executive of Scottish Salmon Producers’ Organisation (SSPO), said: “The North American market has always been one of the most competitive markets in the world, with consumer demand for strong brands, premium quality and large fish all year round. Scotland’s high quality salmon with its full traceability has helped drive sales over the years, boosting trade in USA.

“However, following a dip in sales last year, as a reaction to external market challenges, Scottish farmers remain confident that they can retake their share of the market. Scottish salmon was voted ‘best farmed salmon in the world’ for a second consecutive time in 2014. But last year’s performance is a clear indicator of how competitive the market is and how Scotland needs enough production capacity to be able to trade profitably on quality and fulfil major export orders.”

The Scottish Salmon Company and Wester Ross Salmon will join SSPO in Boston at the Seafood Expo North America – the leading trade event for seafood buyers. Fish farmer Andrew Ross of Wester Ross Salmon is better known to American customers as the face on the company labels, but this year he will be there in person to talk to buyers about producing Scottish salmon.

The industry is supported by Scottish Development International (SDI) which helps to open new market opportunities and acts as hosts to salmon producers.