Downings fishing company named Seafood Exporter of the Year

A Donegal fishing company has been named Seafood Exporter of the Year at this year’s Irish Exporters Association (IEA) Export Industry Awards.

McBride Fishing, a Downings-based family-run business, is focused on year-round supply of premium live and processed crab to European and other international markets.

Sponsored by Bord Iascaigh Mhara (BIM), Ireland’s Seafood Development Agency, the award recognises the achievements of seafood exporters with a focus on innovative product development or market access initiatives.

“Winning this prestigious national award was made possible by the hard work, commitment and passion of the entire McBride Fishing team to deliver a quality product and service; from the crew on the boats to the office staff,” Luke McBride, International Sales Director, McBride Fishing said.

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“It is a great recognition for the company to have since exporting is the core of the business. I want also to recognise and thank our partners in logistics, packing and airfreight for their expertise and support. Also, our joint venture company, Ocean Jade, has been pivotal in the Chinese market.”

Seafood Exporter of the Year evaluation criteria include commitment to sustainability, product innovation, market access innovation and operational excellence. Companies are also asked to demonstrate new product innovation, a commitment to sustainability and novel or innovative logistical and/or packing solutions to access new markets. This year’s independent panel of judges commented on the commitment to industry, commercial partnerships and plans for growth demonstrated by McBride Fishing in their application.