In the chilled seafood sector, salmon’s value share among the top ten chilled species rose to 48.7%.
Salmon has emerged as the United Kingdom’s most popular fish, with recent data indicating a 3.2% increase in sales over the past year, totaling £1.25 billion.
This surge in sales, accounting for nearly 30% of all fish purchased in the UK. The festive season is expected to further boost sales as families prepare for Christmas.
In comparison to the overall 2.5% increase in fish sales, salmon’s growth outpaces the general market trend. Notably, in the chilled seafood sector, salmon’s value share among the top ten chilled species rose to 48.7%, significantly outselling its closest competitor, warm water prawns.
Despite overall seafood prices being affected by inflation, the price increase for salmon has been relatively lower compared to the broader food and drink category.
Scottish salmon’s export value has seen a 7% increase over the year, with exports valued at £611 million, underscoring its status as the UK’s top food export. France remains the primary export market for Scottish salmon.
Tavish Scott, chief executive of Salmon Scotland, commented: “Scottish salmon’s success as the UK’s biggest food export is well known, but salmon is also by far the most popular fish here at home as well.”
“While this is fantastic news for the health of the nation, it’s also a reminder that salmon is vital for our economy, supporting thousands of jobs – both in remote coastal communities and right across Scotland.”
