Peterhead is Europe’s largest fishing port for whitefish and pelagic species. In 2024, 223,341 tonnes of catches worth £265,378,183 (gross value) were traded across the quaysides, up from 193,279 tonnes and £232,428,422 respectively the previous year.
Whitefish accounted for 58,139 tonnes worth £107,220,403 (55,936 tonnes worth £102,415,393 in 2023). Pelagic stocks reached 159,229 tonnes worth £143,253,386 (131,534 tonnes worth £113,082,36 in 2023). Shellfish figures were 5,974 tonnes worth £14,904,394 (5,809 tonnes worth £16,930,664 in 2023).
The Port provides first-class facilities and infrastructure for both the landing and selling of fish, and we place a premium on quality.
In recent years PPA has invested over £50 million in a new state-of-the-art fish market and quayside improvements that allow for vessels to land at all states of the tide.
Peterhead Fish Market last year successfully renewed its key storage and distribution accreditation from BRCGS and has Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) chain of custody status, highlighting its reputation as a centre of sustainable seafood excellence. Peterhead was also the first UK port to receive Responsible Fishing Port status from Seafish.
The Port’s ongoing support for the fishing industry was further underlined by its investment in a new ice factory adjacent to the fish market that was completed last year.
The £3.5 million plant, located on Greenhill Quay adjacent to the fish market, is far more efficient and much more accessible than the two old plants it replaces, both from the quayside and roadside.
The Board of PPA has also approved the introduction of an electronic auction for the fish market, which following extensive engagement work with stakeholders is set to be introduced in the spring of 2026.