Convenience retailer Co-op has launched the supplier scheme, the Scottish Salmon Farming Group, as part of its commitment to selling responsibly sourced fish.
The new group is intended to bring together stakeholders from across the salmon supply chain, including key suppliers and long-standing processor Farne Salmon and Trout Ltd. As with other Co-op farming groups, suppliers will be invited to work toward a bronze, silver and gold pillar system, with a strong focus on fish welfare and environmental impacts.
Co-op said the initiative would enable it to build more strategic, long-term relationships with its Scottish suppliers while also focusing on best-practice and performance in support of its new salmon farming standard.
The group will also look to invest in research to help future-proof the industry and will work closer with local salmon farming communities in the Scottish mainland and islands.
In volume terms, Co-op’s salmon sales are at present up 22 percent year-on-year.
“We’re proud to sell 100 percent fresh farmed Scottish salmon in our stores, and at a time when consumer demand is rising now is the perfect time to launch this new Scottish Salmon Farming Group,” said Aisla Jones, fish sustainability manager at the Co-op.
“It will build on our already-strong sustainability credentials and will allow us to mirror the success we’ve seen across other Co-op farming groups, by enhancing and cementing our existing supplier relationships. We also want to make a positive impact within the Scottish communities that produce our world-class salmon and help future-proof the industry for generations to come."
