The North East Scotland Fisheries Development Partnership met on Friday 21 August 2026 to discuss a range of topics impacting the fishing industry. Key discussions included updates on the Scottish Ocean Cluster's work to add value to seafood by-products, a presentation on innovative on-board processing technology for nephrops, and a comprehensive update on the Fishing Vessel Ocean Observing Network's temperature monitoring project. The meeting also featured port updates from Peterhead, Fraserburgh, and Aberdeen, alongside round table discussions on industry challenges and future developments.

Vice-Chairs' Updates

Elspeth MacDonald, representing the Scottish Fishermen's Federation, provided an update on the challenges facing the catching sector. She highlighted concerns about reduced quotas for key species like cod and mackerel, while noting a more positive outlook for nephrops. MacDonald also touched upon ongoing issues such as changes to economic link requirements, mackerel sharing discussions, and the cumulative impacts of offshore wind development on fisheries, stressing the need for clarity on mitigation measures. She also informed the partnership about current and recently closed Scottish Government consultations on future catching policy and fisheries management plans, encouraging industry engagement.

Fisheries Innovation and Sustainability: Nephrops Processing

Cara Bryden from Fisheries Innovation and Sustainability presented on a project to develop an automated machine for stunning and tailing nephrops for the scampi market. She explained that while similar projects exist, this initiative is focused on testing in Northern Ireland and aims to demonstrate the feasibility of onboard automation, even for smaller or older vessels. Bryden emphasised that automation is intended to improve efficiency, safety, and crew welfare, rather than replace jobs. The project has successfully developed a prototype capable of processing 200 prawns per minute, with an estimated cost of £120,000 to £250,000, and an independent assessment suggested a payback period of around three years for relevant vessels. Bryden also discussed the need for continued funding and support for such innovations, particularly from NGOs and governments, to help the industry meet new regulations and market demands.

Scottish Ocean Cluster

Stephen Marr, Engagement Manager for the Scottish Ocean Cluster, presented an update on the organisation's efforts to add value to seafood by-products and side streams in Scotland. The cluster aims to transform Scotland's blue economy by unlocking the full value of these resources, positioning Scotland as a world leader in this area. Marr highlighted Scotland's advantages, including its coastal geography, established processing businesses, and strong academic and research ecosystem. He explained that the cluster acts as a facilitator, bringing together the seafood sector, biotechnology, academia, and investors. Marr presented data showing the significant global growth potential of the seafood by-product market, projecting it to reach $64 billion by 2035. He detailed the cluster's progress, including the completion of a business plan, securing funding for a new employee, and compiling a report on Scottish byproduct volumes. The cluster's roadmap includes building networks, launching a membership model, and developing case studies to demonstrate the value of by-products. Marr also announced an upcoming Scottish Ocean Cluster Summit in Glasgow on 9 September.

Fishing Vessel Ocean Observing Network (FVON)

Cooper van Vraken presented on the Fishing Vessel Ocean Observing Network (FVON), an international consortium working to advance ocean observation using fishing vessels. He highlighted a significant gap in subsurface data coverage in coastal and shelf areas, which FVON aims to address by instrumenting fishing gears. Van Vraken showcased live data from a Faroese research vessel, demonstrating how temperature data can be visualised and used by the fishing industry. He explained that this data can benefit the fishing industry by providing insights into fish distribution and behaviour, aid fishery science and management by reducing scientific uncertainty, and improve oceanographic and weather forecasting. Van Vraken stressed that fishing vessels offer a cost-effective platform for data collection compared to traditional research vessels. He also discussed the importance of data quality, management, and the potential for this data to be considered critical national infrastructure.

Port Updates

Peterhead Port Update: Graeme Dey provided an update on Peterhead Port, noting that whitefish landings were slightly down year-on-year but still strong, despite quota cuts. Shellfish landings were stable, while pelagic species, particularly mackerel, showed a significant decrease due to quota reductions. Dey reported good progress on the port's e-auction project, with three of the four clocks now operational and a fourth planned for late September. He also mentioned the conversion of the old MAPCO building into six fish processing facilities, which is nearing completion and will be available for tours in late September.

Fraserburgh Harbour Update: Pamela Neri reported that Fraserburgh Harbour had a strong start to the year with good landings of whitefish, prawns, and scallops. She highlighted planned investment in the shiplift's control system and the successful installation of a landing winch for small boats. Neri also mentioned ongoing school engagement activities and grant applications to Marine Scotland. The harbour's GEI project, focused on ground investigation, is underway with support from the Just Transition Fund. Looking ahead, Fraserburgh Harbour is prioritising projects for 2027, including safeguarding the dry dock and further shiplift upgrades. Neri also noted the port's efforts to attract cruise vessels and its upcoming participation in the Scottish Ocean Cluster Summit.

Aberdeen Port Update: Chris Bell provided a brief update stating that all was well at the Port of Aberdeen, with support for the independent fishing fleet and ongoing projects to benefit the wider fishing industry.

Round Table Updates and Discussion

State of the Coast Project: Ian Hay provided an update on the State of the Coast project, which aims to inform people about coastal workings and the condition of various industries. The project is conducting beach surveys to assess litter levels and is approaching its 10,000th volunteer for the Turning the Plastic Tide project. Peterhead and Fraserburgh are collaborating by using settlement panels to monitor for invasive species in their ports.

Sea Fish: Jeremy Sparks, representing Sea Fish, announced that for the first time, they have secured Marine Fund Scotland funding to support onshore seafood industry skills development. Courses in food hygiene, HACCP, health and safety, and specialised seafood skills are now available with 100% funding for Scottish businesses until the end of the financial year. Sea Fish is also collaborating with Developing the Young Workforce to enhance foundation apprenticeship offers for young people in the seafood sector, including a free elementary food hygiene certificate. Sparks also mentioned the launch of digital fisher ID cards to verify training records and the ongoing UK pavilion at the Japan Fisheries Expo. Sea Fish is also conducting a weekly monitor of marine diesel prices across the UK.

Seafood Scotland: Jenny, representing Seafood Scotland, reported on the Japan Seafood Show, where Scottish businesses, including two pelagic businesses from the North East, are exhibiting. She noted that UK lobster exports to France remain unaffected by new minimum size rules. Jenny also highlighted the upcoming Scottish Ocean Cluster Summit and activity in Fort William. She provided an update on the Scotland Food & Drink Partnership's Skills Action Group, focusing on people and skills within the industry. Seafood Scotland is also planning in-person and virtual sessions for its Seafood and Schools programme.

Moray Perspective: Councillor Marc Macrae reported on a successful summer for cruise liners visiting Buckie, with plans to expand this next year. He expressed disappointment regarding the current state of cargo, particularly the whisky industry, which has seen no vessels since November. Macrae also mentioned ongoing work on a master plan for the harbour with support from the Scottish Government's Just Transition Fund.

Peterhead: Councillor Dianne Beagrie announced that the Peterhead CFest will return next year with a new committee and chair.