CORNISH FISHERMEN AND MERCHANTS SET UP NEW SARDINE ASSOCIATION

A group of fishermen and merchants has joined together to form the “Cornish Sardine Management Association” (CSMA). This new group aims to maintain a top quality product and consider methods to manage and develop both the catching and marketing of the Cornish sardine. 

Cornish waters are home to a stock of pilchards and these fish are becoming a more important resource for the county.  The fish stocks are not regulated by the quota system and are increasingly sought after by merchants and retailers so the CSMA wants to take advantage of this potential.  The fish are highly perishable and need careful handling and chilling to give the highest possible quality for sale as a pristine fresh product.  The CSMA is working to build up the market for fresh pilchards with a concentrated effort to improve quality together with a re-branding as “Cornish sardines”.

Nick Howell, Chairman of the new Association, said “For the first time both catchers and processors have the opportunity to combine within an Association and build a reputation and market share with their combined efforts. There is an opportunity to establish their own, EU recognised brand and it will be up to the members of the new Association to guide that process from the start”.

Stephan Glinksi, sardine fisherman from Newlyn, said “With a focused approach we can capture and expand the UK sardine market.  To do this the CSMA will ensure best practice at all times to give continuity of quality and supply by the catcher members, to enable the merchants and processors to build on their successes so far.”

Anyone considering catching or processing Cornish Sardines who would like to benefit from the Association’s development is invited to join.  Contact Nick Howell for more information on 01736 332112 or South West Pesca Ltd for membership forms 01872 270333.

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