Cywain Fisheries, a groundbreaking project to boost the fortunes of the fishing industry in Wales, says that it''s helping to lead the way among its European counterparts bringing security and jobs to the sector.
Launched in 2011, Cywain Fisheries is funded through the European Fisheries Fund with match funding from the Welsh Government. It helps the fishing sector develop new products or markets, emphasising on collaboration.
The organisation has to date worked with 60 Welsh clients resulting in the creation of 55 new products and 59 new markets, while creating 20 new jobs and safeguarding a further 63. In addition, there has been a collective increase in turnover reported to date by 24 companies of £1.23 million.
Albatross Fisheries, Mermaid Seafoods Ltd and Menai Oysters, have all received support.
Pembrokeshire based Albatross Fisheries sources and supplies fresh, high quality sustainably caught sea bass to local hotels and restaurants.
With Cywain Fisheries’ support the venture has been able to set up and promote a tagging scheme, enabling the easy identification of its line caught sea bass as having been sustainably caught. It has also set up a new website.
Family run Mermaid Seafoods Ltd meanwhile, is the largest fish wholesaler in North Wales. Cywain Fisheries has helped the company with its marketing and branding including the re-development of its website.
From a consumer perspective, Cywain Fisheries has produced marketing resources to promote the Welsh fishing sector, including guides to Welsh seafood and recipe cards.
It has also been able to establish strong relationships with other projects and organisations including Fisheries Associations, Seafish, and the Fisheries Local Action Groups (FLAGs).
