// Aldi launches new range of seasonal fish to support British fishing industry hit hard by hospitality closures
// The fish is sourced from hundreds of independent fishermen working off the south coast who sell their catches at fish markets
// The fish are part of the Aldi Specialbuys range and are available while stocks last
Aldi is launching a new range of seasonal fish in a bid to support the British fishing industry that has been hit hard by the closure of hospitality venues.
On sale from Thursday this week, the new range features species mostly fished on the south coast of Britain that would normally have been sold to restaurants across the UK and Europe.
It marks the first time that species such as Dover Sole, Lemon Sole, British Hake and Cornish Sardines have featured on Aldi’s shelves, and the first time that Turbot has been sold in any major UK supermarket.
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The fish is sourced from hundreds of independent fishermen working off the south coast who sell their catches at fish markets in Plymouth, Brixham and Newlyn, and is the result of Aldi extending its partnership with Plymouth-based supplier Sound Seafood.
The fish are part of the Aldi Specialbuys range, which are limited-stock ranges launched in store and online every week and are available while stocks last.
“With so many challenges facing the British fishing industry, we spoke to our suppliers to see what we could do to help,” Aldi UK buying managing director Julie Ashfield said.
“We’re delighted to be able to purchase this seasonal fish stock that might otherwise go to waste, and it’s great for customers too who’ll be able to enjoy restaurant quality seasonal fish at Aldi prices.”
Plymouth Fish Market auctioneer Alison Pessell said: “This is a fantastic boost for our fishing community as it represents a real lifeline for our crews.
“In more normal times, much of the native fish caught off the South West coastline is destined for restaurants across the UK and Europe, so the fact that they’ve been closed for much of the past year has been devastating.
“We’ve worked hard to find other buyers for our fish, with some suppliers delivering boxes of fish directly to customers’ homes.
“The response has been fantastic, with consumers recognising the quality and variety of fish landed in our ports.
“Now Aldi has stepped in at a crucial time providing the opportunity to connect customers directly with British fish supplied from our coastal communities.
“This is a substantial new market opportunity. Aldi has recognised the efforts made every day by our fishermen and women in the UK and is able to now share restaurant quality fish with Aldi customers to enjoy at home.”
To help inspire shoppers on how to prepare the seasonal catches at home, Aldi has teamed up with renowned restaurateur, chef and food writer Mark Hix to create a series of delicious yet simple recipes.
Earlier this year Aldi committed to spending an additional £3.5 billion a year with British suppliers by 2025.
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