Aberdeenshire’s premier seafood festival gears up for its third edition, highlighting a dynamic industry facing both growth and evolving challenges.
Peterhead, the bustling heart of Europe’s largest whitefish port, is set to host the third edition of its acclaimed biennial seafood festival, SeaFest Peterhead, on Saturday, 11th September 2027. The free-to-attend event, which has previously drawn approximately 30,000 visitors to the Aberdeenshire town since its inception in 2023, aims to once again showcase the region’s vital fishing industry and its vibrant local communities.
The festival’s return comes at a time of significant activity for Scotland’s seafood sector. In 2024, Scottish vessels collectively landed 561,000 tonnes of sea fish and shellfish, valued at a robust £756 million when adjusted to 2024 prices. This marks the highest tonnage and real-terms value recorded in a decade, representing a 12% increase in volume and a 5% rise in value compared to 2023. Peterhead Port Authority, a cornerstone of this success, reported record-breaking gross landings exceeding £341 million in 2025, further solidifying its position as the UK’s leading fishing port. The broader Aberdeenshire region contributed significantly to Scotland’s fishing economy, generating an Approximate Gross Value Added (aGVA) of £199 million in 2023, accounting for 50% of the national total.
SeaFest Peterhead, an award-winning event recognised as the ‘Best New Food and Drink Tourism Experience’ at the North East Scotland Food and Drink Awards in May 2024, will expand its footprint along Birnie’s Pier to the Peterhead Port Authority jetty. More than 150 local businesses are expected to participate, offering a diverse array of entertainment, activities, food experiences, and demonstrations designed to appeal to all ages.
This year sees a leadership transition for the volunteer-led organising committee, with Michael Bates, a former seafood industry veteran and committee member since 2025, taking over as chairman. He succeeds local businessman Jimmy Buchan MBE of Amity Fish Company, who remains on the committee. Bates will be joined by Laura McKay as vice chair and Simone Fitzsimmons as secretary.
Commenting on the upcoming event, new chairman Michael Bates stated: “SeaFest Peterhead is an excellent opportunity for all ages to explore and learn more about the seafood industry here in the north-east. Our festival has always supported local businesses, and it allows those in our community to meet the individuals who fish along their shores and help put seafood on their plates.” He further emphasised the dual purpose of the festival, adding: “There’s a huge education element to the festival, but we’re also providing a brilliant day out for everyone to enjoy – whether you’re a foodie looking for the next new product being developed locally, picking up some freshly caught seafood, or are interested in the different vessels.”
Industry Dynamics and Future Outlook
While the North East of Scotland’s seafood industry demonstrates robust economic performance, it operates within a complex landscape of evolving challenges. The wider UK seafood sector experienced growth in 2024, with exports rising by 13% to £1.98 billion and imports reaching £3.8 billion. However, the industry continues to navigate “continued Brexit-related barriers and a turbulent global trade environment,” which have impacted trade dynamics, particularly with the EU. Labour and skills shortages, coupled with limitations in processing capacity and under-investment in innovation, are identified as factors limiting Scotland’s growth potential and competitiveness in comparison to other major seafood-producing nations.
Peterhead and nearby Fraserburgh, Scotland’s major shellfish port, are critical hubs within this intricate ecosystem. Peterhead Port Authority (PPA) has shown its commitment to sustaining the sector through significant investment, including over £50 million in a new state-of-the-art fish market and quayside improvements. The port also boasts storage and distribution accreditation from BRCGS and Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) chain of custody status, underlining its dedication to quality and sustainable practices.
Graeme Reid, CEO of Peterhead Port Authority, highlighted the festival’s significance: “The success of SeaFest Peterhead 2025 exceeded expectations and demonstrated the huge appetite for an event that celebrates our fishing and seafood industries. We are proud to continue our support for SeaFest in 2027 and to help build on the momentum that has made it one of the region’s most anticipated community events.” He added, “SeaFest shines a spotlight on the people, skills and innovation that drive Peterhead’s world-renowned seafood sector. It provides an opportunity not only to showcase the quality and sustainability of our produce, but also to inspire future generations to learn more about the industries that are so important to our economy and identity.”
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The industry also faces species-specific pressures, such as a projected 42% cut in the mackerel quota for 2026, which is expected to impact landings and economic activity, despite regulatory measures aimed at increasing landings in Scottish ports. Furthermore, a recent study from the James Hutton Institute identified an untapped economic opportunity: tens of thousands of tonnes of fish by-products are often converted into low-value fishmeal or fish oil, rather than higher-value products like collagen or nutraceuticals, highlighting a need for improved coordination and investment in innovation within the supply chain.
With its blend of educational opportunities, local produce showcases, and family-friendly entertainment, SeaFest Peterhead aims to strengthen community ties and public appreciation for an industry that remains a cornerstone of the North East’s economy and identity. The festival is supported by a growing network of sponsors and volunteers, including Peterhead Port Authority, Seafood Scotland, Macduff Shellfish, Seafood Ecosse, Turriff Printing, Quantum Data Supplies, and Howard Haulage.
Further details regarding the 2027 programme, exhibitors, and sponsors will be announced in the lead-up to the event. Interested parties can find more information or inquire about sponsorship and exhibiting via the official SeaFest Peterhead website.
