Bord Iascaigh Mhara (BIM), the state seafood development agency, has launched a national support and development programme aimed at strengthening the independent seafood retail and foodservice sectors.

The Seafood Academy will focus on business development, skills training, and collaboration, and provide seafood professionals with the tools they need to grow consumer engagement and drive sustainable seafood sales.

The first project of the Seafood Academy, a consumer-facing website (famousforfish.ie) and marketing campaign promoting a cluster of businesses in Howth, was launched this week.

The campaign aims to spotlight the expertise and fresh local seafood available in Howth from Nicky’s Plaice, Dorans on the Pier, Kish Fish, Reid’s Fish Market, Wrights of Howth, and Beshoff’s the Market.

The Irish seafood retail market was worth €333m last year, but much of the growth came from inflation rather than increased demand.

The Seafood Academy empowers independent seafood retailers to build consumer appreciation for local seafood through education, collaboration, and shared business insights," said Paul Ward, head of business intelligence at BIM.

"It will also elevate understanding and appreciation of Irish seafood within the foodservice sector through targeted education and business intelligence programmes.”

Martin McLoughlin of Nicky’s Plaice is enthusiastic about the academy’s potential and their collaboration in particular, saying: “Fishing is at the heart of Howth’s history, and we’re proud to continue that tradition by working together to showcase the very best seafood our pier has to offer.

"The new Howth: Famous for Fish website makes it easier than ever for people to discover our fishmongers, learn about our catch, and get inspired with fresh ideas for their table.” 

The Seafood Academy is part of a wider strategic vision by BIM to foster regional clusters of seafood businesses across the country.

The next cluster is planned for South Co Dublin by the end of 2025, with more to follow in 2026.

“Through this cluster-led approach, BIM aims to ensure that independent fishmongers remain a vibrant and resilient part of Ireland’s seafood sector, supporting local jobs and the wider economy," said Ward.

Photo: (l-r) David Wright (Wright's of Howth), Paul Grenville (Reid's Fish Market), Sean Doran (Doran's on the Pier), Martin McLoughlin (Nicky's Plaice), Alan Beshoff (Beshoff's), Graham Murphy (Kish Fish). (Pic: Supplied)