Sustainable Future Awards Finalists
lt is only fitting that Cumbrian Seafoods have made the final three in the Sustainable Future category of the Seafood Awards having long been committed to sustainable practices.
It is 10 years since the company first opened its factory doors. They provide a range of fresh fish, smoked fish, shellfish, coated and added value seafood products to Morrisons, Tesco, Iceland, Somerfield, wholesale and food service companies.
The vision was and still is, to set the Industry standard in quality, price and service levels.
Since then, the business has grown rapidly, with acquisitions in 2001, 2002 and 2005 to deal with customers' demands and market requirements. Outside the UK, the company has made equity investments in Iceland and
the far east.
Peter Vassallo, the company's founder, recognised right from the start of his career in the seafood industry the importance of conserving marine stocks.
An article published by The Manufacturer in 2003 highlighted Peter's concerns: "Many years ago, I saw that the industry was going to be faced with great problems from its apparent disregard for conservation."
More than three years after the publication of this article, sustainability has become a very hot topic indeed
Today, Peter is more committed than ever to sustainability and the benefits it brings to the industry as a whole. He has never wavered from his conviction that it is his responsibility to be involved in the sustainability of species". It also actually makes sound commercial sense," he says.
He says that to Cumbrian Seafoods, Sustainability is not only just about how, where and when the fish was caught, it is about the impact on the community, the eco-system and the environment.
Peter has researched his market well and created a completely new operation. And his commitment to sustainability came long before it became fashionable.
He is now trading strongly with the top end of the market and his business is now one of the biggest employers in Cumbria.
