MarineCo keen to develop links with new European suppliers

Already recognised as a leading wholesaler to the UK fishing industry, MarineCo is now looking to establish itself in new markets. Managing director Chris Dinham says he would welcome approaches from companies seeking to gain a foothold in the UK.

‘We are extremely selective and rigorous in our product selection, but we are always interested in talking to people who feel they have something to offer,’ he says.

Meanwhile, safety will be the major theme on the MarineCo stand at the Glasgow exhibition as the new-look organisation moves to ram home the message that even a small financial outlay can help save lives.

MarineCo, formerly the Fishing Co-operatives, has already been involved in a major safety campaign in Cornwall and played an instrumental role in increasing the number of fishermen using lifejackets in the region by keeping the supply costs down to the bare minimum.

Safety

‘Safety issues are easy to neglect,’ says Chris Dinham. ‘As an organisation we are committed to promoting safety initiatives and are keen to raise the profile of the various lifesaving products available.’

One of these items is the Markus Lifenet – an incredibly simple but effective man overboard rescue device. Housed in a container on the deck, the throw-bag can be quickly released and cast in the direction of someone who has fallen overboard.

Either by reaching the net bag or its trailing ropes, the casualty is able to enter the net and quickly be pulled back onboard the vessel.

‘It is very quick and can be thrown out into the water in a matter of seconds,’ says Chris Dinham.

Also featured will be a man overboard ladder for use on single-handed vessels. Attached to the side of the hull, a person who has fallen into the water can easily release it and climb back onboard.

Keeping to the safety theme, the MarineCo stand will provide a focus on lifejackets and flotation suits. CE approved lifejackets from Mullion will be on display, including the Eco 150 which is small enough to wear even when a fisherman is engaged in arduous manual tasks.

Diverse range

In addition to the safety gear, the MarineCo stand will have its usual wide and diverse range of products, including ropes, buoys, protective gear and knives.

According to Chris Dinham, the name change to MarineCo has gone down exceptionally well with the fishing industry and now gives the organisation an opportunity to expand into new markets.

‘We wanted to convey the message that we are an all-encompassing wholesaler to the marine industry, with a wide portfolio of products. I think we have achieved that and positioned ourselves well for future expansion,’ he says.

Stand A81 at Fishing 2002.