A strategic review has concluded there is an overwhelming need for Seafish to continue its championing of the UK’s seafood industry.
The endorsement comes from a recent consultation with the seafood industry and government into the future of the organisation. During summer 2021, Seafish posed questions on its function, form and funding to determine its future direction, including questions on the levy system which was last reviewed in 1999.
“We are pleased to say the strategic review has given us a strong steer and mandate going forward and a renewed sense that industry need our support now more than ever,” commented Marcus Coleman, chief executive at Seafish.
The consultation concluded that there is clear need for Seafish to keep supporting the seafood industry to thrive but that, whilst priorities were well understood, the organisation is currently spread too thin and needs to focus on initiatives with the most impact.
The review also found that Seafish’s funding needs to be revisited with further consultation needed between industry and government to reform its levy.
Subject to ministerial approval from across the four administrations, Seafish is now starting to implement a set of recommendations made by its board. These will support the development of the organisation’s 2023-2028 Corporate Plan and cover the six areas of workforce issues, reputation, climate change, international trade, innovation and insight, and fisheries management.
As part of its renewed focus, Seafish has confirmed it will be stopping consumer marketing through Love Seafood from 1 April.
