After a busy first day at the show, exhibitors and guests headed to the Douglas Hotel in Aberdeen for the popular complimentary show reception, put on by The Skipper team. This yearly event, sponsored by Certas Energy (Commercial Oils), Sunderland Marine, and Yanmar Europe (Trevor McDonald), has become a firm fixture of the show, giving exhibitors a chance to relax, catch up, and enjoy each other’s company.
The food was a real highlight, with fresh seafood supplied by J. Smith Fish Merchants, GJ Jack Seafoods, and MFV Sunrise. The kitchen team at the Douglas Hotel turned these top-quality ingredients into a spread of impressive dishes.
With free drinks and live music adding to the atmosphere, the evening became a lively celebration of the fishing industry’s strength and community spirit in the face of recent difficulties.
Sharon Boyle, Commercial Fishing Manager for show organiser Mara Media, said the reception was the team’s way of giving something back. “The industry has had a tough few years, and this is our chance to say thank you to our customers and raise a glass to their continued success,” she said. “A big thank you to our sponsors, seafood suppliers, and the team at the Douglas Hotel. We can’t wait to do it all again at the Irish Skipper Expo next year.”
With great food, drink, and company, the show reception continues to be one of the highlights of the event, reflecting the strong sense of community and shared purpose within the fishing industry.
