UK Salmon Sales Soar: A Record £1.5bn Amid Strong Demand
Salmon has once again secured its title as the UK’s favorite fish, with staggering sales figures revealing a remarkable rise to £1.5 billion last year. This surge comes as a result of unrelenting demand both domestically and internationally.
Unprecedented Growth in Sales
In the 12 months leading up to December, sales of salmon leapt by 5.5%, accounting for nearly one-third of all fish sales in the UK. Remarkably, this growth outpaces the wider fish category, which recorded a 2.9% increase during the same period.
Salmon maintains its stronghold in the seafood sector, commanding an impressive 31% of the value share and outselling its closest rival, cod, by nearly three times.
Record Sales Volumes
The volume of salmon sold also increased significantly, rising by 5.8% to exceed 73,000 tonnes—the highest volume of any fish in the UK. This positions salmon comfortably ahead of competitors like tuna and cod, underscoring its broad appeal on dinner tables nationwide.
Currently, salmon constitutes almost one in five tonnes of fish sold in the UK, showcasing its growing popularity as a healthy and sustainable protein source.
Resilience Amid Controversy
The impressive figures come despite ongoing activist campaigns aimed at closing fish farms. According to Salmon Scotland, these results highlight robust consumer confidence in Scottish salmon, farmed in the pristine waters off Scotland’s Highlands and islands.
International Market Confidence
Scottish salmon continues to be the UK’s largest food export, despite a 10% import tariff on UK goods introduced by former US President Donald Trump. Exports surged by 45% last year, reaching a record £844 million—equivalent to £2.31 million per day—bolstering the sector’s international reputation.
Notably, Asian markets, particularly China and Taiwan, recorded massive growth—over 60%—as Scottish salmon is increasingly recognized for its superior quality on a global scale.
Industry Insights
Tavish Scott, CEO of Salmon Scotland, stated:
“Scottish salmon remains a key player in the UK’s seafood market, both as the leading food export and a preferred choice among British consumers. With salmon accounting for nearly a third of all fish sales in the UK, it is evident that people are choosing it for its health benefits and sustainability.
“This demand is positive for the nation’s health and economy, supporting thousands of jobs across Scotland’s rural and coastal communities. Even amidst well-funded campaigns aimed at shutting down farms, the popularity of Scottish salmon continues to flourish, both at home and abroad. Consumers trust in its quality, with Scottish salmon celebrated for its exceptional taste and responsible farming practices.”
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