The European Seafood Exposition (ESE) in Brussels, world’s largest seafood show, will be held on 27-29 April 2010, where companies exhibiting on the Scottish Pavilion expect to generate sales leads in excess of £20 million. The prediction for such huge sales has been done as demand for quality Scottish produce continues to outstrip supply. The value of business generated from the exhibition has increased year-on-year recently, rising from £16m in 2007 to £20m in 2009.
Commenting on this Fisheries Secretary Richard Lochhead said that the world’s largest seafood trade fair is the perfect platform to showcase Scotland’s iconic seafood. Their fishing and aquaculture sectors have worked hard to earn a reputation for quality, and the time has come to turn these plaudits into profits.
He informed that there will be 17 companies representing the pelagic, whitefish, shellfish and salmon sectors present on the Scottish Pavilion, including several with increased stand sizes compared with previous years. Scottish Development International (SDI) is an important supporter of the seafood sector, helping companies to achieve increased overseas business and develop international links. SDI has supported attendance at the exhibition since its inception 18 years ago, during which time more than 150 companies have benefited from assistance.
David Smith, interim chief executive at SDI, explained that at this time of tough competition it is necessary to create awareness among buyers why they should be selecting Scottish produce. He told that Scottish food and drink, and particularly Scottish seafood, is one of our biggest exports, and by supporting these companies in their efforts to grow internationally, SDI is investing in growing the Scottish economy.
Scott Landsburgh, chief executive of Scottish Quality Salmon and the Scottish Salmon Producers’ Organisation, said that the world’s largest seafood exhibition is an ideal opportunity to showcase top of the range Label Rouge Scottish Salmon as it is the ‘can’t-miss’ fair for seafood companies with aspirations for growth and opportunity.
