BIM Seafood circle to deliver high standards across sector
Bord Iascaigh Mhara is once again recruiting first-class seafood retailers to join its Seafood Circle programme.
Print13 April 2010
BIM/Irish Sea Fisheries Board, the State agency with responsibility for the Irish fishing and aquaculture industry, have developed the Seafood Circle Initiative to support and encourage restauranteurs and retailers to consistently deliver the highest standards of seafood and service to their customers.
There are three categories of membership – Hospitality, Seafood Specialist and Supermarket Seafood Counter, with a total of 175 members nationwide this year. Check out the designated Seafood Circle website on www.seafoodcircle.ie for a full list of members.
There are two categories of membership for the retail sector: The Supermarket Seafood Counter includes all multiple, symbol groups and independent supermarkets offering a range of seafood from a wet fish counter, as part of a much greater offering of other foodstuffs.
The Seafood Specialist category is open to seafood retailers who derive in excess of 60% of their turnover from seafood sales and where the retail portion of their premises does not exceed 250 metres square.
Experienced BIM personnel and independent auditors assess the programme. Applicants receive unannounced visits during the assessment period and report their findings to an independent approvals committee. Spot checks are carried out as required.
For 2011, the criteria for membership will again focus heavily on the quality of fish, customer service and of course adherence to correct labelling and hygiene practices. It is important to note that carrying a minimum range of 12-14 species on the wet fish counter is a basic requirement for membership.
The Seafood Circle aims to offer excellent quality seafood and service to consumers and it is introducing a range of “Best in Category” awards to acknowledge members that go the extra mile. Award categories will include Seafood Specialist/Supermarket Seafood Counter of the year and Best Newcomer of the Year.
Category winners will be selected as part of the audit process.
If you feel your premises is a candidate for membership in 2011 you can contact 01 2144100 or email obyrne@bim.ie to request an application form. Closing date for receipt of applications for 2011 membership is 30 April 2010.
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