UK salmon sales soar to £1.5bn

According to new Seafish/ScanTrack/Salmon Scotland numbers, salmon sales leapt by 5.5% in the 12 months to December, accounting for nearly a third of all fish sales in the UK. The year-on-year growth for salmon also outpaced the 2.9% rise recorded across the wider fish category.

The analysis found that salmon maintained its leading position in the seafood sector, holding 31% of the value share and selling nearly three times more than cod, its closest competitor. The volume of salmon sold also rose by 5.8%, reaching more than 73,000 tonnes, the highest of any fish in the UK, and putting it comfortably ahead of tuna and cod.

Salmon now accounts for nearly one in five tonnes of fish sold nationwide, reflecting its popularity as a healthy, sustainable option for consumers seeking a low-carbon source of protein.

Trade body Salmon Scotland said the results reflect strong demand and consumer confidence in Scottish salmon, raised in the waters off the Highlands and islands.

“Scottish salmon continues to be a key player in the UK’s seafood market, both as the leading food export and a preferred choice for British shoppers,” Salmon Scotland Chief Executive Tavish Scott said. “With salmon now accounting for nearly a third of all fish sales in the UK, it’s clear that people are choosing it for its health benefits and sustainability. This demand is great news for the nation’s health and the economy, supporting thousands of jobs across Scotland’s rural and coastal communities.”

Acknowledging recent activist campaigns aimed at closing down fish farms, Scott said: “Even with loud, well-funded campaigns trying to shut down farms, the popularity of Scottish salmon keeps growing, both here and abroad. Shoppers continue to trust its quality, with Scottish salmon renowned for its superior taste and responsible farming practices.” 

Separately, Scottish salmon farmed in five areas across Scotland’s west coast and northern islands, remains the UK’s largest food export. The sector remains confident in international demand, despite the 10% import tariff on UK goods announced by US President Donald Trump.

Exports increased by 45% to a record GBP 844 million last year – equivalent to GBP 2.31 million per day – cementing its position as the UK’s largest food export.

Massive growth of more than 60% was recorded in Asian markets, particularly China and Taiwan.