Peterhead Port Authority (PPA) is delighted once again to be one of the main sponsors of this year’s Scottish Skipper Expo. It comes at a time when the Port is further investing in the modernisation of operations at Europe’s largest fishing port with the phased introduction of an E-auction sales platform. It marks a significant shift from the traditional shout auction that has long been a feature of Peterhead’s quaysides. The move is designed to enhance efficiency, improve traceability and broaden market access for buyers while maintaining the strong competitive environment that underpins prices for fishermen.
While embracing innovation, Peterhead continues to build on its long-standing position at the heart of the UK fishing industry, with recent annual figures confirming another year of strong throughput and value. Gross landings across the quaysides reached just over £341 million in 2025. Growth was experienced across almost all species, with mackerel once again the standout performer. 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. However, PPA chief executive Graeme Reid said it was important to recognise 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.
“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.”
PPA’s commitment to supporting the sector is matched by sustained investment in infrastructure. The port’s state-of-the-art fish market, opened in 2018 as part of a £51 million development, remains central to operations, complemented by ongoing upgrades including energy-efficient ice production facilities and enhanced quayside access. Additionally, the port is developing six new state-of-the-art fish processing facilities that will be completed later in 2026.
As a Trust Port with more than four centuries of fishing heritage, Peterhead continues to balance tradition with forward-thinking development. The introduction of the E-auction represents the latest step in that journey, ensuring that the Port not only retains its leading position today, but is fully equipped to meet the evolving needs of the industry in the years ahead.
