Seafish announces restructuring plans

Seafish, the body that supports the UK seafood industry, has announced plans to restructure parts of the organisation to ensure it continues to deliver the best support and value to the industry over the long term.

Following careful consideration by its Board, Seafish will refocus its work on the areas where it can make the greatest difference for industry, while also securing the organisation’s financial sustainability over the next five years. The plans follow the UK Government’s announcement earlier this year that Seafish’s proposed levy reform would not proceed.

Seafish Chair Mike Sheldon said:

“While the levy decision was not the outcome we had hoped for, we fully respect the decision in the context of the challenging economic climate in which the UK seafood industry is operating. The extensive levy consultation and review process that we undertook with the industry clearly showed where they need our support most, and this has been central in shaping our plans so we can continue supporting a thriving seafood sector into the future.”

Seafish will now focus on fewer core delivery areas of service to industry:

Skills & Training: continuing to support safety at sea, fishermen’s training and onshore training that helps seafood businesses meet essential standards.

Facilitating Trade: providing guidance and support on regulation, market access and trade flows to help seafood move frictionlessly across borders.

Future Ready: supporting responsible sourcing, environmental sustainability, decarbonisation, innovation, and wider challenges and opportunities facing the sector.

These three core areas will be underpinned by data, insight and industry engagement, ensuring the industry has access to trusted analysis and that Seafish remains closely connected to seafood businesses across the UK.

Some activities that sit outside these priorities will be gradually wound down between now and 31 March 2026. This includes activities where long-term funding is uncertain or where other organisations are better placed to lead, such as Seafish’s Fisheries Management service in its current form, although Seafish will strive to retain some fisheries science expertise. This will be determined through a staff consultation process.

Mike Sheldon added:

“These decisions have been taken only after thorough review by our Executive Team and Board. We recognise that any organisational change has an impact on people, and we are

handling this with the utmost care. Up to 13 roles may be affected, and a consultation process is now under way with those colleagues.

“Our commitment to industry remains unchanged. These adjustments will allow us to continue providing high-quality services, insight and support, ensuring Seafish remains a stable, effective and trusted partner for the UK seafood sector.”