West Cork-based seafood processor Shellfish Ireland has completed a €500,000 investment aimed at growing sales and expanding its range of high-quality, value-added seafood products, the company announced.

As reported by The Fishing Daily, the Castletownbere, Co. Cork facility investment delivered significant automation and processing upgrades, allowing the company to deliver a broader product range for competitive domestic and international markets. The investment is expected to support annual sales of more than €14 million, returning the business to pre-Covid profitability.

Shellfish Ireland received grant support of €236,000 through the Seafood Processing Capital Investment Scheme under the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund. The scheme is partially financed by the Government of Ireland and the European Union, and operated by Bord Iascaigh Mhara.

Richard Donnelly, interim chief executive of BIM, said: "This investment by Shellfish Ireland is a great example of how Irish seafood entrepreneurs are adopting both innovation and sustainability to stay ahead of the competition. The company will strengthen long-term resilience and support the continued growth of the Irish seafood industry through improving production processes and adding new lines."

The investment included upgraded packaging and processing equipment and increased automation. The introduction of renewable and energy-efficient processes, including solar power, has reduced the company's carbon footprint.

Carol Harrington, chief executive of Shellfish Ireland, said the investment will support consolidation in core European markets whilst enabling the company to re-enter Asia and pursue new growth opportunities.

She added: "This investment supports our three-year strategic plan to grow our presence in both domestic and international markets. Export sales currently account for approximately 65% of total turnover, with France and Spain representing our largest overseas destinations."

Read the complete investment details and market expansion plans.