Salmon farmer’s fruitful investment

THE Scottish Salmon Company (SSC) has invested £10 million in its freshwater operations, with the aim of increasing smolt production as it grows its business.
Among freshwater projects announced today is the new facility in the Applecross estate in Wester Ross, Applecross Kishorn, due to be completed in 2020 and creating a ‘centre of excellence in freshwater production’, said the company.
SSC has also acquired two freshwater facilities in the area – the onshore hatchery Appleburn Couldoran and a nearby facility at Loch Damph, which will support increased smolt production.
To mark the new developments, the SSC’s chief executive, Craig Anderson, planted Scottish heritage apple trees at the sites.
The company said the investment is part of its ongoing commitment to Scotland’s rural communities and economies, and will provide 21 skilled, full-time jobs.
The latest developments follow record results for the Scottish Salmon Company in 2018, that saw revenues reach £180.1 million.
Export volumes accounted for more than 60 per cent of sales last year, with particular success in key export markets North America and the Far East.
Anderson said: ‘We are making a significant investment in the Highlands and Islands which will strengthen our freshwater operational infrastructure and deliver greater capacity to meet the increasing global demand for our quality Scottish salmon.
‘We are committed to responsible business growth in the communities in which our staff live and work, and to sustainably building on our positive economic impact in these rural areas.
‘These infrastructure projects will mean long-term job security and more spending in the local area through our local sourcing policy.’
Picture: SSC’s chief executive Craig Anderson and recirculation project manager Richard Polanski plant an apple tree