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Fishmongers’ support strengthens marine conservation in the Caribbean 

Posted on by Gavin O'Donnell

The Fishmongers’ Company’s Fisheries Charitable Trust is helping the Marine Conservation Society strengthen locally informed conservation across the Caribbean UK Overseas Territories. 

Photo: James Looney

The Fishmongers’ Company’s Fisheries Charitable Trust is supporting the Marine Conservation Society (MCS) to strengthen marine conservation across the Caribbean UK Overseas Territories, as part of the Company’s wider Ocean Conservation Programme. 

A £25,000 grant awarded in 2026 is supporting MCS’s Enhancing capacity to deliver marine conservation impact in the Caribbean UK Overseas Territories project. The funding is increasing the capacity available to develop four priority conservation initiatives focused on hawksbill turtles, coral reefs, East Caicos and marine wildlife in Montserrat. 

The support builds on a long-standing relationship between Fishmongers and MCS in the region. Previous Company-funded work has included support for a local scientist and fisher to carry out turtle nesting surveys, while successful projects in East Caicos and Anguilla have helped MCS develop its conservation work in the Overseas Territories. 

MCS has worked in the Caribbean UK Overseas Territories for more than 20 years. In Turks and Caicos, its long-running turtle programme has worked with fishing communities and government to improve management of the traditional turtle fishery. This included recommendations for regulations protecting large and breeding adult turtles, alongside continuing work with local communities on conservation and management. 

That experience is now informing the work supported by Fishmongers. One priority is the recovery of hawksbill turtles in Turks and Caicos, bringing biological and social science together to assess their status and develop a national species recovery action plan. Other priorities include building local capacity for coral reef conservation, progressing community-based management and eco-tourism in East Caicos, and using citizen science to map marine megafauna in Montserrat. 

East Caicos itself contains coral reefs, seagrass beds, mangroves and wetlands that support turtles, sharks, rays and commercially important species including queen conch and Caribbean spiny lobster. MCS’s work there seeks to place local communities at the heart of decisions about the island’s future. 

Through the Ocean Conservation Programme, the Company’s support is helping provide the capacity needed to turn promising conservation priorities into developed projects, while building skills and strengthening locally informed marine conservation across the Territories. 

Future Fisheries Scientist Gains Valuable Industry Experience Through Company Sponsorship

Posted on by Gavin O'Donnell

A promising marine science student has been given a unique opportunity to develop practical fisheries research skills through the  Company’s fisheries targeted academic sponsorship programme, designed to support the next generation of fisheries and marine professionals.

Sara Tudor completed an internship with the Fisheries Team at Bangor University, thanks for funding from the Company’s Fisheries Charitable Trust, gaining first-hand experience of the scientific work that underpins sustainable fisheries management. Her placement combined laboratory research, fieldwork and data analysis, providing exposure to a wide range of fisheries science disciplines.

During the internship, Sara contributed to scallop and whelk stock assessments, undertook biological sampling and dissection, supported fisheries data management, and worked alongside commercial fishermen collecting scientific information from catches. She also gained experience in data quality control, learning how researchers use evidence to monitor marine resources and inform sustainable management decisions.

Sarah said: “The internship has given me so much valuable hands-on experience, from working with scallop and whelk stock assessments and biological sampling, to working with fishermen, processing fisheries data and learning how research is applied to sustainable fisheries management. More than anything, it has confirmed how much I enjoy fisheries science and that this is an area I would really like to build my career in.”

The placement also highlighted the importance of collaboration between scientists and the fishing industry, giving Sara the chance to work directly with fishermen and fisheries businesses while developing practical skills in biological sampling, species identification, laboratory techniques and data analysis.

Through its targeted academic sponsorship programme, the Company supports talented students and helps strengthen the future skills base of the fisheries and marine science sector. Opportunities such as this bridge the gap between academic study and professional practice, equipping emerging scientists with the knowledge, practical experience and industry understanding needed to contribute to the sustainable management of fisheries and the marine environment.

Fishmongers’ Hall Hosts Launch of Landmark Fisheries Action Plan

Posted on by Gavin O'Donnell

The Fishmongers’ Company was proud to host the launch of the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Fisheries’ Action Plan for a Thriving and Sustainable UK Fishing Industry at Fishmongers’ Hall on 9 September.

The event brought together parliamentarians, industry leaders, scientists and stakeholders from across the UK’s fishing and seafood sectors to unveil a comprehensive roadmap designed to secure a sustainable and prosperous future for one of the nation’s most important food-producing industries.

The Action Plan calls on Government to recognise fishing and seafood as part of the UK’s critical national infrastructure and to establish a coherent, long-term strategy for the sector within the next twelve months. Drawing on evidence gathered from coastal communities and industry representatives across all four nations of the United Kingdom, the report highlights the significant contribution fishing makes to food security, employment, local economies and the resilience of coastal communities.

The Action Plan sets out 38 recommendations covering food security, sustainability, investment, science, infrastructure, workforce development and domestic seafood consumption. Among its key proposals are the appointment of a dedicated Minister for the Marine and measures to ensure the fishing and seafood sectors can access energy-cost support comparable to that available to other industries.

Development of the Action Plan was supported by funding from the Fishmongers’ Company’s Fisheries Charitable Trust (FCFCT), which also supports the APPG’s Secretariat services. The initiative reflects the Trust’s longstanding commitment to promoting sustainable and prosperous fisheries and supporting the communities that depend upon them.

Eleanor Adamson, Head of Fisheries at The Fishmongers’ Company, welcomed the publication of the report, saying:

“The Fishmongers’ Company and its Fisheries Charitable Trust are proud to have supported this cross-sector, cross-party inquiry, and thank the many experts whose insights helped shape it. The UK’s fishing and seafood sector sustains communities around our coasts and plays an important role in our food security, yet rarely gets the strategic attention it deserves.”

She added:

“We hope this Action Plan, which brings together voices from across the industry and all four nations, informs a constructive conversation about a prosperous future for the benefit of those working in the sector, the environment and our island nation.”

The launch at Fishmongers’ Hall underlined the Company’s enduring commitment to supporting a thriving and sustainable fishing industry. By bringing together policymakers, industry representatives and experts, the event provided an important opportunity to advance discussion on the future of UK fisheries and the role the sector can play in strengthening national food security, economic resilience and environmental stewardship.

Fishmongers’ Scholars Build Connections at Shellfish Industry Conference 

Posted on by Gavin O'Donnell

Four postgraduate students sponsored under the 2026 Targeted Academic Sponsorship Programme recently came together at the Shellfish Association of Great Britain (SAGB) Annual Conference in London, gaining valuable insight into the sector while expanding their professional networks. 

Held at The Crown Estate on 14 and 15 July, the SAGB conference brought together industry leaders, researchers, policymakers and seafood businesses to discuss topics ranging from sustainable fisheries and aquaculture development to market access, climate change and crustacean welfare.  

The students attended a packed programme of presentations and panel discussions, including contributions from representatives of Defra, Seafish, Cefas, the University of Oxford and Exeter University.  

Alongside the formal sessions, the event provided an excellent opportunity for the scholars to meet one another and connect with professionals from across the UK shellfish sector. Pictured above at the conference’s gala dinner, sponsored by the Fishmongers’ Company and held at Fishmongers’ Hall, Lola O’Mara (University of Essex), Alex Rain (University of St Andrews), and Sara Tudor and Xander Vladislavich (both from Bangor University) also had the chance to catch up with former Fishmongers’ scholars now working in industry and research roles, including Georgia Wells (far right, former student at the University of Plymouth), offering valuable perspectives on potential career pathways within the seafood and marine sectors. 

The conference demonstrated the breadth of opportunities available across the shellfish industry and highlighted the importance of collaboration between academia, industry and policymakers. For the students, it was a valuable opportunity to broaden their knowledge, build relationships and become part of a growing network of seafood professionals.  

The Fishmongers’ Targeted Academic Sponsorship Programme is pleased to support students engaged in applied fisheries research at a host of Universities around the UK. As part of our sponsorship, they receive invitations to industry events such as the SAGB Conference, helping the next generation of fisheries, aquaculture and marine science professionals develop the connections and experience needed for successful and relevant future careers in the sector. 

Fishmongers’ Company Supports National Celebration of Inshore Fisheries

Posted on by Gavin O'Donnell

The Fishmongers’ Company’s Charitable Trust (FCFCT) was proud to support the National Day of Recognition and Celebration of Inshore and Small-Scale Fisheries, held at Alnwick Castle on 1 July 2026.

Hosted by His Grace the Duke of Northumberland in partnership with Newcastle University’s Centre for Rural Economy, the Inshore and Small-Scale Fisheries Consortium (ISSF) and the Association of Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authorities (AIFCA), the event brought together more than 100 delegates from across England to celebrate the contribution of inshore fishing communities and explore solutions to the challenges facing the sector.

A particular focus of the day was ensuring that fishermen’s voices were central to discussions. Through funding provided by FCFCT, 14 fishermen from around the country were able to attend, helping to ensure that conversations about the future of fishing reflected the experiences and priorities of those working at sea and within coastal communities.

The programme featured contributions from fishermen, policymakers, regulators, academics and charities. Delegates heard from Fisheries Minister Stephen Morgan, Alison Hume MP, representatives from the Marine Management Organisation, local fisheries authorities and industry organisations. Discussions covered sustainable fisheries management, funding opportunities, workforce recruitment, seafood education, marine conservation and support for fishing families.

The event also highlighted the importance of the UK’s small-scale fishing fleet, which comprises around 80% of fishing vessels. These family-run businesses not only land sustainable, locally sourced seafood but also support jobs ashore, preserve maritime heritage and help sustain vibrant coastal communities around the country.

The evening before the event, attendees visited several Northumbrian fishing villages, including Boulmer, Beadnell, Craster and Seahouses. Conversations with local fishermen highlighted concerns around recruitment, affordable housing and the long-term resilience of fishing communities.

The day provided an important opportunity to strengthen collaboration between fishermen, researchers, regulators and community organisations while celebrating the resilience and contribution of the sector. It also reinforced the need to ensure that fishing remains at the heart of coastal development and economic growth discussions.

World Ocean Day: The Fishmongers’ Company Ocean Conservation Programme

Posted on by Gavin O'Donnell

On World Ocean Day, the Fishmongers’ Company’s Ocean Conservation Programme highlights its global commitment to safeguarding ocean health, restoring biodiversity and supporting sustainable livelihoods. The programme is structured around two core workstreams, International Outreach and Marine Habitats & Species, designed to advance ocean conservation through partnership, innovation and practical action.

Photo: Derek Keats

At its heart, the programme seeks to:

  • Safeguard ocean health and biodiversity,
  • Promote sustainable “blue growth” across fisheries, aquaculture and coastal economies,
  • Strengthen global partnerships and ocean governance,
  • Build capacity and ocean literacy, particularly in under-resourced regions

Through International Outreach, the Company supports global knowledge exchange, capacity-building and collaboration with organisations such as the Joint Nature Conservation Committee and CORDAP. This workstream focuses on scaling innovative projects, strengthening coastal community resilience, and aligning efforts with global frameworks like the UN Sustainable Development Goals and ocean governance agreements.

The Marine Habitats & Species workstream complements this by driving conservation projects that protect and restore ecosystems. This includes supporting Fisheries Improvement Projects, advancing species protection, and working with industry to embed sustainable practices that balance environmental stewardship with economic viability.

A defining feature of the programme is its ability to leverage funding and partnerships, significantly amplifying its impact beyond direct investment and enabling large-scale conservation outcomes.

Recent developments from the Coral Research & Development Accelerator Platform (CORDAP) demonstrate the pace of innovation being supported. CORDAP is advancing a wide range of solutions, from next-generation coral probiotics to improve climate resilience to new tools, training programmes and technologies that enhance reef restoration capacity worldwide.

Emerging approaches show how these innovations are being applied in practice. In Southeast Asia, conservation teams are deploying engineered concrete reef structures to restore seabeds damaged by destructive fishing and climate change, providing stable foundations for coral growth and enabling marine life to return.

Together, these efforts reflect the Fishmongers’ Company’s commitment to science-led, collaborative ocean stewardship, supporting scalable solutions that protect marine ecosystems while strengthening the communities that depend on them.

A New Catch: How Discover Seafood Is Supporting Britain’s Chippies

Posted on by Gavin O'Donnell

Britain’s fish and chip shops are under growing threat, as soaring costs and supply pressures squeeze one of the nation’s most iconic food sectors. According to the National Federation of Fish Friers (NFFF), around 1,500 shops have closed in the last three years, with many more at risk as the price of cod and haddock – largely imported – has risen by up to 200%. These increases, driven by reduced quotas, supply chain pressures and rising costs, are making it increasingly difficult for independent chippies to remain profitable and rely on traditional species alone.

Against this backdrop, Discover Seafood is helping to support the trade and drive positive change. Led by and funded by the Company’s Fisheries Charitable Trust as part of its Seafood Trade Programme, the initiative represents a clear commitment to a sustainable and profitable UK seafood and fishing industry.

Working in collaboration with the National Federation of Fish Friers, Discover Seafood is spotlighting fish and chip shops that are adapting successfully by embracing British seafood. Across the UK, businesses are diversifying their menus with UK-caught species such as hake, coley, monkfish and rock salmon, reducing reliance on imports while creating new options for customers. Examples like Harrison’s in Oxford, which has introduced a wider range of British fish and won national recognition for menu innovation, and The Cod’s Scallops in Nottingham, which serves over 20 species daily, demonstrate how innovation can support both profitability and sustainability.

This campaign is already gaining national attention, with its “Buy BritFish” message picked up by the Daily Mirror, highlighting the growing urgency of supporting chippies through greater use of UK seafood.

By showcasing these leaders, Discover Seafood is helping to build confidence across the trade, encouraging more businesses to consider the opportunities offered by domestic species, supporting our UK fishermen, improving our food security and showcasing the amazing seafood Britain has to offer.

International Wild Salmon Day: Delivering Action for Wild Salmon Recovery

Posted on by Gavin O'Donnell

International Wild Salmon Day is an opportunity to reflect on the scale of the challenge facing wild Atlantic salmon and the Fishmongers’ Company’s long-standing commitment to their conservation. Salmon stocks across the UK and the wider North Atlantic are in sharp decline, reinforcing the urgency of coordinated, practical action.

At the heart of the Company’s freshwater work is its support for the Missing Salmon Alliance (MSA). Founded and developed by the Company’s Fisheries Charitable Trust, the Alliance brings together the UK’s leading salmon organisations to drive collaboration on research, management, funding and advocacy. The Company continues to play a central role as convenor, partnership builder and funder, building on the momentum of the Wild Salmon Connections conference held at Fishmongers’ Hall in 2025, which has catalysed new international partnerships and opportunities for collective action.

Alongside this, the Company is investing in catchment-scale habitat restoration through its support for Rivers Trust-led initiatives. This work focuses on restoring freshwater ecosystems across entire river catchments, improving water quality, biodiversity and resilience to climate change. By strengthening the Rivers Trust network, particularly in Scotland, and supporting collaboration between catchment organisations, the Company is helping to build the capacity needed to deliver long-term improvements for salmon and wider river health.

A key element of this approach is the development of pathfinder programmes, which demonstrate practical, scalable models for restoration. These projects provide real-world examples of how coordinated habitat recovery and partnership working can deliver ecological benefits at scale, while helping to unlock further funding and wider adoption.

Complementing this is the Farmer Cluster programme, which addresses one of the most significant pressures on freshwater systems: agriculture. By working directly with farmers at catchment scale, the programme encourages improved land management practices, helping to enhance water quality, restore habitats and reduce environmental impacts across river systems.

Together, these initiatives reflect an integrated strategy, combining science, habitat restoration, policy engagement and partnership working, to secure a sustainable future for wild salmon and the ecosystems on which they depend.

Bloomin’ Octopus: New film explores a changing fishery in the South West

Posted on by Gavin O'Donnell

A new short film, Bloomin’ Octopus!, shines a light on one of the most striking recent developments in UK fisheries: the sudden surge in octopus numbers off the South West coast. The film brings together scientists, fishermen and coastal communities to explore what is driving this phenomenon, and what it could mean for the future of the seafood sector.

The project has been supported with funding from the Fishmongers’ Company’s Fisheries Charitable Trust, which works to advance knowledge, research and education in support of a sustainable UK seafood industry.

A changing fishery

The film highlights a rare “octopus bloom” currently affecting the South West, where populations of common octopus, normally scarce in UK waters, have increased dramatically, driven by warmer seas, favourable currents and evidence of local breeding. This has created mixed impacts for fisheries: while some fishermen have adapted to target octopus as a valuable new catch, many have seen significant declines in crab, lobster and scallop fisheries due to heavy predation, with catch rates in some cases falling markedly and more than half of fishers reporting negative effects overall. At the same time, the surge points to wider ecosystem change linked to warming oceans, with scientists warning such blooms could become more frequent, making adaptation, monitoring and market development increasingly important for the sector.

Supporting Kelp Restoration Research: Insights from International Collaboration

Posted on by Gavin O'Donnell

PhD researcher Cat Wilding has returned to the UK with valuable new insights into kelp restoration science following her attendance at the KELPRIME Final Workshop in Bodø, Norway, supported by a Fishmongers’ Company Student Travel Bursary.

Cat’s doctoral research focuses on developing effective restoration techniques for kelp forests, which are vital coastal habitats that support marine biodiversity and fisheries, while also contributing to carbon storage and coastal resilience. Her work addresses a key challenge facing kelp ecosystems: increasing sea temperatures driven by climate change.

The KELPRIME workshop brought together leading researchers in kelp physiology, molecular ecology and aquaculture to share findings from a three-year international project investigating “temperature priming”. This emerging technique explores whether briefly exposing young kelp to elevated temperatures can enhance their resilience to future heat stress, an approach with potential applications for restoration and hatchery practices.

Over two days of talks and discussions, Cat gained insights into the molecular mechanisms behind stress memory in kelp, evidence of improved performance in early life stages following priming, and how these findings could be translated into real-world restoration efforts. These themes align closely with her PhD research, strengthening the scientific foundations of her work to improve the long-term success of kelp restoration in UK waters.

Cat also presented results from her recent aquarium experiments, showcasing UK-based restoration research to an international audience. The highly collaborative nature of the workshop enabled productive exchanges across career stages and disciplines, helping her to build new research connections and explore opportunities for future collaboration and knowledge exchange.

Reflecting on the experience, Cat highlighted the importance of international partnership in tackling shared environmental challenges and expressed her gratitude to the Fishmongers’ Company for supporting her participation. The knowledge and connections gained from the workshop will directly inform her ongoing research and contribute to efforts to restore and protect vital kelp ecosystems in the UK.