New shellfish processing plant to create jobs in Buckie

The former premises of a seafood firm in Buckie, which closed in 2022, has been brought back to life as a state-of-the-art shellfish processing facility.

Over the next three years, the project is expected to generate nearly £1m in turnover and create 12 new jobs.

Newly formed Moray Shellfish Limited secured up to £98,000 in investment from Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) towards the total project costs of £280,000 to establish the facility.

The work involved a full refurbishment of the former John Thomson Seafoods building, with upgrades to walls, ceilings, flooring and electrics to meet modern processing standards.

HIE’s funding supported the purchase and installation of key processing equipment, as well as building works.

Innovative cooking systems and blast freezing have been installed to maximise energy efficiency and product quality, while minimising the facility’s carbon footprint. This supports the region’s net zero ambitions.

Moray Shellfish Limited is a new venture created by the directors of the long-established, family-run Cluny Fish Ltd and The Orkney Food Company Ltd.

The Buckie facility represents a key step in the group’s growth strategy, focusing on product diversification. It will specialise in processing and packaging a range of premium crab products, including dressed crab, white and brown crab meat, and cooked claws.

All new jobs created will be paid at least the Real Living Wage, in line with HIE’s conditions for financial support.

Keira Orme business development manager with HIE’s Moray team said:

“It’s great to see disused premises in Buckie brought back into productive use, stimulating local economic activity and creating valuable jobs. I’m delighted we were able to provide support and look forward to continuing to work with Moray Shellfish as the new facility becomes established.”

James Paterson director of Moray Shellfish Limited said:

“We’re proud to bring new life to this site in Buckie and create skilled jobs in the local area. As a fourth-generation seafood business, our roots in the Scottish fishing industry run deep. This new venture builds on our family’s heritage while embracing innovation and sustainability.

“With HIE’s support, we’re excited to position Buckie as a centre for high-quality shellfish production and future growth.”