Highland-based business recognised for social and environmental performance.
Highland-based seafood processing business Aquascot has announced its certification as a B Corporation (B Corp), becoming the first Scottish-based seafood processor to achieve the globally recognised standard for social and environmental performance.
The company, headquartered in Alness, Ross-shire, operates within Scotland’s £468 million aquaculture sector. Aquascot has been the primary supplier of premium Scottish salmon and trout to Waitrose since 2003, and was recently named Waitrose Own Brand Supplier of the Year 2026.
The certification marks a significant moment for the UK seafood industry, demonstrating how the sector can deliver responsibly farmed, high-welfare protein at scale through its rigorous supply chain oversight, audit process, progressive policies, and employee ownership. John Housego, Managing Director of Aquascot, said: “Aquaculture is the fastest-growing food production sector globally, providing a vital source of healthy protein. However, operating responsibly requires tackling industry challenges head-on. Achieving B Corp certification proves that commercial success, high animal welfare, and rigorous environmental management can go hand in hand.”
Aquascot’s environmental credentials include enforcing 100% farm-level auditing across its supply base, achieving zero waste to landfill, and setting targets to cut food waste by 60% by 2030. Mr Housego added: “From enforcing 100% farm-level auditing across our supply base to achieving zero waste to landfill and setting ambitious targets to cut food waste by 60% by 2030, we want to lead by example and show retail and foodservice partners what responsible seafood processing looks like.”
In addition to environmental performance, B Corp certification evaluates a company’s impact on its workforce and local community. Aquascot is celebrating 10 years of 100% employee ownership in 2026, with its 200+ team members, known as Partners, having a stake in the business’s governance and success. “Being located in Alness, north of Inverness, our business is deeply rooted in the local Highland community,” Mr Housego further stated. “As an employee-owned B Corp, every person here has a voice. We hope this recognition inspires others across Scotland and the UK to join us in shaping the future of sustainable food.”
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Jake Pickering, Head of Agriculture, Aquaculture and Fisheries at Waitrose & Partners, said: “Aquascot has been a key partner to Waitrose for over two decades, consistently championing the highest standards in animal welfare and environmental stewardship. Achieving B Corp certification is a fantastic milestone that reinforces their leadership in responsible aquaculture and demonstrates what is possible for the wider UK food industry.”
Chris Turner, CEO of B Lab UK, commented: “Welcoming Aquascot to the B Corp community is hugely exciting. Its commitment to doing business differently will be an inspiration to others and will help spread the notion that success in business is as much about people and planet as it is profit.”
