Salmon has firmly held onto its position as the UK’s favourite fish, with the latest figures revealing that sales surged to £1.5 billion last year, reflecting sustained robust demand. In the twelve months to December, sales jumped by 5.5 per cent, representing nearly a third of all fish sales across the country.
This year-on-year growth for salmon outstripped the 2.9 per cent increase seen in the wider fish category, underscoring its dominance in the seafood sector. Salmon now accounts for 31 per cent of the value share and is selling at nearly three times the volume of cod, its nearest rival. The quantity sold also rose by 5.8 per cent, reaching more than 73,000 tonnes-making it the highest-selling fish in the UK.
Salmon’s enduring popularity places it comfortably ahead of tuna and cod, highlighting its continued appeal both at the checkout and on the dinner table. It now represents nearly one in every five tonnes of fish sold nationwide, reflecting its reputation as a healthy, sustainable choice for consumers seeking a low-carbon source of protein.
These figures come despite ongoing campaigns by activists calling for farm closures. Trade body Salmon Scotland noted that the results reflect strong demand and consumer confidence in Scottish salmon, which is farmed in the waters off the Highlands and islands.
Separately, Scottish salmon farmed in five regions across Scotland’s west coast and northern isles remains the UK’s largest food export. The sector remains optimistic about international demand, even in the face of a 10 per cent import tariff on UK goods imposed by the United States. Exports rose by 45 per cent to a record £844 million last year-equivalent to £2.31 million per day-cementing its status as the UK’s top food export. Growth of more than 60 per cent was recorded in Asian markets, particularly China and Taiwan, where Scottish salmon is globally recognised for its superior quality.
Tavish Scott, chief executive of Salmon Scotland, commented: “Scottish salmon continues to be a key player in the UK’s seafood market, both as the leading food export and a preferred choice for British shoppers. With salmon now accounting for nearly a third of all fish sales in the UK, it’s clear that people are choosing it for its health benefits and sustainability.
“This demand is great news for the nation’s health and the economy, supporting thousands of jobs across Scotland’s rural and coastal communities. Even with loud, well-funded campaigns trying to shut down farms, the popularity of Scottish salmon keeps growing, both here and abroad. Shoppers continue to trust its quality, with Scottish salmon renowned for its superior taste and responsible farming practices.”
Salmon’s continued success not only highlights its nutritional and environmental credentials but also its vital role in supporting the UK’s economy and rural communities.
