The document details plans for Seafish's commitment of over £11.4million to industry projects and initiatives over the next two and a half years. The organisation is already well on the way to completing its restructure, incorporating objectives that are focussed on delivering value and securing a sustainable and profitable future for the UK seafood industry.
The investment will also lead to greater operational efficiency and transparency through a more open and engaged approach to decision making. To achieve this Seafish has developed eight work programmes focused on a defined set of activities.
The eight work programmes are as follows:
Reputation: Working with industry, government and media to protect and enhance the reputation of the seafood industry.
Consumption: Educating consumers and working with industry to encourage increased consumption of seafood.
Regulation: The provision of advice on regulation and legislative developments within the industry.
Fishermen's Safety: Supporting and enhancing improved safety at sea.
Responsible Sourcing: Working with industry to address key issues in responsible sourcing and sustainability.
International Trade: Working with importers and exporters to offer support and guidance throughout the international supply chain.
Information: The provision of information including economic and technical, expert advice and guidance to the whole supply chain.
Regional: Regional teams providing support to the industry at a local and regional level.
Dr Paul Williams, Chief Executive of Seafish, said: "Last year we announced the start of a new strategic phase for Seafish after extensive consultation with industry. The introduction of three panels - Import and Processors, Domestic and Export and Supply Chain and Consumer - will streamline our operations and improve the transparency of the organisation.
"We are now in a position to unveil our new corporate plan, which outlines our commitment of a significant investment across eight work programmes. Over the coming months we will be working to ensure that this expenditure is allocated efficiently and aligned with a defined set of objectives, to secure a sustainable and profitable future for the UK seafood industry.
"Seafish has made significant changes to the way that it operates and represents the industry. The restructure has resulted in a more open, inclusive and collaborative approach. The announcement of the £11.4million investment is further evidence of our intent to cement our presence as the authority on seafood and I welcome the structured approach that has been implemented."
The new corporate plan, investment plans and restructure is the culmination of a year-long discussion with industry and follows consultation with the four Fisheries Administrations, who have now demonstrated their full support and commitment in approving the document.
