New custodian for UK’s Master Fishmonger Standard

Becoming certified helps showcase traditional craft skills and commitment to the trade. It recognises achievement across all levels and different disciplines and is composed of five tiers – MFS Recognised Fishmonger, MFS Advanced Fishmonger, MFS Master Fishmonger, MFS Companion Fishmonger, and MFS Craft Fishmonger.

SGHA Chairperson Simon Smith said: “We’re honoured to take over this responsibility from The Fishmongers’ Company. Julie Waites is part of the SGHA team and is well placed to uphold and help govern the scheme’s standards and foster fellowship among members for the greater good of the industry. Having worked in the seafood industry for 27 years, Julie is well networked across the seafood industry and has a reliable work ethic. The standard will be in good hands to ensure that the certification is accessible for the fishmongers in the UK, and is relevant, both now and for the future.”

The alliance wants to ensure that all small independent retailers, as well as large suppliers and mobile operators, utilise the benefits of being part of the MFS.

Chairman of the Fishmongers’ Company’s Fisheries Charitable Trust Nigel Bankes said: “We established the Master Fishmonger Standard to recognise all those who excel in our historical namesake trade, and we are very pleased to see it moving forwards in safe hands at the heart of the UK’s modern day seafood trade in Grimsby.”

Fishmongers’ Company Prime Warden Fred Stroyan added: “Those who achieve MFS certification in what is a demanding and highly skilled profession represent the future of our industry, and I am encouraged that a fresh MFS presence in Grimsby will recognise and build skills among the core of the fish trade, from large processors to independent operators.”