Fresh and frozen scallop processor and distributor Northern Wind is celebrating its 30-year anniversary in 2018, a testament to the fortitude of the fast-growing business, according to a recent company announcement.
Based out of New Bedford, Massachusetts, Northern Wind was founded in 1987 by Ken Melanson and Michael Fernandes and has since established itself as one the fastest growing seafood processing and distribution companies in the United States. The company sells scallops and seafood to customers worldwide and prides itself as a leading provider of “the freshest seafood products that have been responsibly harvested using sustainable and environmentally friendly practices.”
The last three decades have seen Northern Wind build strong relationships throughout New England and around the globe, and have helped the company embrace its identity as a top direct-off loader, processor and distributor of fresh and frozen scallops, said Melanson, founder and chairman of the company.
“Over the last 30 years, Northern Wind has not only remained strong throughout many economic ups and downs, but we’ve grown the business and we now serve well over 500 customers across the globe,” Melanson said. “First, our expertise at delivering top quality, responsibly sourced and sustainable scallops and fresh seafood is paramount in our success. Secondly, is our employee’s hard work and dedication to providing superior customer service which has enabled us to attract and retain hundreds of loyal customers.”
Northern Wind deals in fresh and frozen scallops as well as Ahi tuna, North Atlantic lobster, monkfish, headfish, skate and value-added seafood offerings. The business’s 70,000 square foot state-of-the-art facility is certified by the U.S. Department of Commerce Seafood Inspection Program for packing of USDC Grade A fresh and frozen scallops, and also bears stamps of approval from the Marine Stewardship Council and BRC.
The company, which was the first in the nation to receive Fair Trade Certification, purchased over one million pounds of Fair Trade scallops during the 2017-18 fishing season. A new line of high quality premium scallops has also been launched by Northern Wind – Five-Star Premium Scallop was introduced at last year’s Seafood Expo North America. In the product realm, the company also redesigned its Captain’s Call, Mariner’s Choice and Sea Spray scallop product lines “to better portray Northern Wind’s leadership position in the seafood industry,” it said.
“The first 30 years have been an incredible ride. We’ve been blessed to have employees who are dedicated to quality and providing excellent customer service. I can’t wait to see what the next 30 years bring,” Northern Wind President Michael Fernandes said.
Next week, Northern Wind will be exhibiting at Seafood Expo North America from 11 to 13 March at booth #1405.
