2025 was another record‑breaking year for Peterhead, with the Peterhead Port Authority reporting gross value landings across its quaysides reaching just over £341 million – reinforcing its position as the UK’s leading fishing port.
Growth was seen across almost all species, with mackerel once again the standout performer, contributing almost 90% of the year-on-year increase. While overall tonnage handled decreased from 223,000 tonnes in 2024 to 188,000 tonnes in 2025, this was largely due to lower volumes of pelagic species.
Encouragingly, both whitefish and shellfish sectors recorded gains, demonstrating the resilience and adaptability of our fishing community.
‘These achievements are a testament to the hard work of our fishermen, processors, auction teams and all those who support the daily operations of the Port. They also highlight the importance of our continued investment in the industry,’ said PPA chief executive Graeme Reid.
‘This year, Peterhead Port Authority is progressing the development of six new state‑of‑the‑art fish‑processing units, due for completion later in the year, which will provide modern facilities for businesses to grow and innovate. In addition, our E‑Auction project, a major step forward in the digital transformation of fish sales, remains on track for implementation towards the end of Q1.’
He stressed the importance of recognising that the strong financial results achieved in 2025 would not be sustained at the same level in 2026.
‘The recently introduced quota cuts, most notably a 42% reduction in the mackerel quota, will have a direct and significant impact on landings and associated economic activity,’ he said.
‘While the revised Scottish Economic Link, which now requires 70% of mackerel and herring to be landed into Scottish Ports, may help in supporting the domestic supply chain, it will not offset the consequences of such substantial quota reductions. These measures will be felt not only by Peterhead Port Authority but also by the many stakeholders whose livelihoods depend on a stable and productive fishing industry. We will continue to work closely with industry partners, government, and our local community to manage the challenges ahead and to ensure that Peterhead remains a resilient and forward‑looking hub for fishing in Scotland.’
