Donegal fishing company, McBride Fishing Co. Ltd has been named Seafood Exporter of the Year at this year’s Irish Exporters Association (IEA) Export Industry Awards. The Downings based family run business is focused on year-round supply of premium live and processed crab to European and other international markets. Sponsored by Bord Iascaigh Mhara (BIM), Ireland’s Seafood Development Agency, the award recognises the achievements of seafood exporters with a focus on innovative product development or market access initiatives.The winner was announced at an awards ceremony held in Dublin on Friday 27 September.
Luke McBride, International Sales Director, McBride Fishing described some of the features that make the business unique. He said:
“McBride Fishing is a family company based in Downings, Co. Donegal. We’re a worldwide supplier of brown crab and blue lobster. We specialise in live crab for the European, Asian and international markets. The season is all year round; we change the boats and the fishing grounds to be able to achieve this.
What makes our product unique is that it’s a premium shellfish caught by my cousins and my uncles. It’s a family company and we have full traceability throughout the supply chain. If a customer has a question about any of the shipments received, I am able to pinpoint what boat it came from, who the skipper was on that boat. We’re in charge of the whole supply chain from start to finish. From once we catch it, to shipping it to customers in all markets whether that’s Asia or the US, Canada or Europe.”
Richard Donnelly, Development and Innovation Services Director, BIM said:
“Demand for high quality seafood is strong and McBride’s focus on sustainability, traceability and innovation has enabled them to seize diverse market opportunities in Europe, Asia and other key markets throughout the world. On behalf of BIM, I want to congratulate them in their achievements. I also want to recognise their commitment to ensuring a consistently high standard throughout their operations. They are helping to drive the reputation of Irish seafood in Ireland and internationally.”
Seafood Exporter of the Year judging criteria includes commitment to sustainability, product innovation, market access innovation and operational excellence. Companies were also asked to demonstrate new product innovation, a commitment to sustainability and novel, or innovative logistical and/or packing solutions to access new markets.
This year’s independent panel of judges commented on the commitment to industry, commercial partnerships and plans for growth demonstrated by McBride Fishing in their application.
Independent judges considered sustainability, product innovation, market access innovation and operational excellence. Companies were asked to demonstrate new product innovation, a commitment to sustainability and novel, or innovative logistical and packing solutions to access new markets.
The Export Industry Awards has recognised the achievements of companies working in the export industry for 24 years.
Four Irish seafood businesses were shortlisted for the Seafood Exporter of the Year:
Burren Smokehouse, McBride Fishing Co. Ltd, Shines Seafood and Carlingford Oyster Company.
