Seafood specialist MacNeil Shellfish has opened an innovative distribution centre in Bilbao (Vizcaya). This is a strategic move by the Scottish company, which intends to scale up its operations and solidify its position in the European market. A 3,000 m2 facility has been designed to drive forwards this new phase of growth for the company, created in 2012 by Michael MacNeil and Amber Knight.

MacNeil Shellfish has partnered with Fishellnorth Ansomar to implement the new distribution centre. The state-of-the-art facility will improve its operational efficiency, increase its market share and significantly boost its distribution capacities, mainly in Spain and Portugal, but also in the rest of Europe.

Five years of meticulous planning
The British company's investment in its Bilbao facilities has exceeded £10 million    (5.86 million euros). As its founder explained, “This expansion is the culmination of five years of meticulous planning and dedication, and marks an important milestone for the family business”, whose certified, sustainably sourced products have guaranteed provenance and traceability.

Commenting on the product varieties they market, MacNeil explained, “Scottish seafood remains one of the most sought-after products across the European Union, and the new plant will enable MacNeil to increase production with an expected 30% growth in turnover by 2024 and a 10% increase in exports.”

Excellence and sustainability
His partner, Amber Knight, added, “Our new facility in Bilbao is testament to our dedication to excellence and sustainability. Not only will it enhance our distribution capabilities, but it will also strengthen our support for Scottish fishing communities, enabling us to deliver our exceptional products more effectively in Spain and Europe.”

In addition to quality, sustainability is a pillar of the company, whose mission, as Knight says, “goes beyond just selling seafood. We are deeply committed to fostering a sustainable future for our community of suppliers, partners and employees.”

MacNeil notes that the company “has been a strong advocate for ethical and sustainable seafood harvesting. By partnering with nearly six hundred local suppliers in Scotland, MacNeil has earned a reputation for wild creel-caught delicacies such as crab, lobster and prawns, setting the gold standard for responsible seafood sourcing.”

^{Photo: MacNeil Shellfish}