Commenting on the continued exporting success, Brian Simpson, Chief Executive of Scottish Quality Salmon said: It is of great significance that this has been achieved against an overall downturn in salmon sales during 2004, by as much as 26% for fresh whole fish and 16% for fresh cuts and portions.
Label Rouge Scottish salmon is clearly the favoured salmon product in France, as this is the sixth consecutive year that exports have increased. The size of the increase is significant too, as it is the largest for some years.
Strong consumer confidence in Label Rouge status is one of the key factors in the continued success, with French consumers clearly understanding that it is top of the range, superior quality.
The standards for Label Rouge Scottish salmon are extremely stringent and guarantee a superior, delicious and healthy fish, packed full of the health enhancing omega-3 fatty acids.
Label Rouge Scottish salmon has PGI status now as well, which guarantees its distinctive regional characteristics. I expect this new accolade to give Label Rouge Scottish salmon further impetus in the French market.
Label Rouge Scottish salmon has been supported by numerous successful promotional campaigns during 2004, including:
- Participation in a Scottish promotion at the launch of the new Seafood Hall at Rungis, which included tastings, information and traditional music;
- Having pride of place in food workshops at the 2004 Country Show held under the Art de Vivre la Gastronomie banner;
- Representing the excellence of Scottish food at an open air exhibition held on the centenary of Entente Cordiale at the UK Embassy in Paris;
- Adding colour to the summer season by giving children the Little Salmon Book via the 300 French independent fishmonger members of the Clan;
- Participation in a week to delight the taste buds at the Semaine du Gout in October;
- Contribution to a successful record-breaking attempt to create the biggest buffet in the world at the international Equiphotel exhibition in Paris in October.
Source: Scottish Salmon - 2nd February 2005