Recognizing Commitment to Responsible Aquaculture in the UK
Introduction
The Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) recently celebrated excellence within the seafood industry at the fifth annual ASC Awards, which took place in conjunction with the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC). This event not only highlighted outstanding corporate initiatives but also recognized key figures and organizations making a significant impact in promoting responsibly farmed seafood in the UK.
A Focus on Sustainability
Amid growing concerns over environmental sustainability, the ASC aims to make responsibly farmed seafood the go-to choice for consumers. The 2025 award ceremony honored various stakeholders within the seafood supply chain, including retailers, suppliers, and producers, all critically involved in transforming the aquaculture landscape.
This Year’s Honorees
Several organizations were celebrated this year for their exceptional leadership in responsible seafood production:
- Sainsbury’s: Retailer of the Year
- New England Seafood International (NESI): Retail Supplier of the Year
- Birds Eye: Brand of the Year
- BioMar: Newcomer of the Year
- MOWI’s Scottish Salmon Fillets: Product of the Year – Consumer Choice
Spotlight on Award Winners
Sainsbury’s – Retailer of the Year
Sainsbury’s has once again claimed the title of ASC UK Retailer of the Year for the fourth consecutive year. The retailer stands out for its unwavering commitment to sourcing 100% ASC-certified seafood, making it the leader in providing a diverse selection of responsibly farmed seafood both in-store and online.
New England Seafood International (NESI) – Retail Supplier of the Year
NESI received this commendation for its efforts in promoting responsibly certified seafood, making sustainable options accessible to consumers. Group Director Cassie Leisk expressed pride in the team’s dedication to making responsible seafood choices easy for shoppers.
Birds Eye – Brand of the Year
Birds Eye earned recognition for its extensive range of ASC-labelled seafood and its vigorous promotion of responsible aquaculture. Marketing Director Claire Sutton highlighted the brand’s ongoing commitment to guiding consumers toward sustainable meal choices.
BioMar – Newcomer of the Year
Honored for its commitment to the ASC program and leadership in advancing sustainable seafood farming, BioMar’s Business Unit Director Rob Wilson praised the team for aligning their practices with ASC standards.
MOWI Scottish Salmon Fillets – Product of the Year – Consumer Choice
This award marks a significant milestone as the public voted for MOWI’s Scottish Salmon Fillets as their favorite seafood product. Sales Director James Cowan noted the meaning behind the award, emphasizing the team’s dedication to quality and responsibility in seafood production.
Growing Demand for ASC-Certified Seafood
The increasing consumer interest in responsibly farmed seafood is evident, with a 19% rise in ASC-certified products, bringing the total to 857 across the UK in 2025. Additionally, there has been a 15% increase in ASC-certified farm sites, totaling 83, along with three certified feed mills as of October 2025.
Conclusion
These awards not only celebrate individual and corporate achievements but also emphasize the collective responsibility of all stakeholders in advancing sustainable practices within the seafood industry. As ASC continues to strengthen its presence in the UK, it aims to inspire further partnerships to foster a more sustainable aquaculture sector, benefiting farms, fish, communities, and the planet.
Image © ASC
