Expansion at the Scottish Salmon Company (SSC) has created 35 seasonal jobs on Lewis and five full-time positions on Benbecula, taking the firm’s total Outer Hebridean workforce to more than 200 people.
The increased headcount is due to bigger volumes for harvesting at sites around Scotland as the company tries to keep up with fast-growing global demand for Scottish salmon. SSC’s said the new jobs at Arnish harvesting station and Marybank processing plant on Lewis and at Greanamull on Benbecula involved work including harvesting, gutting, filleting and production support.
Visiting the company’s sea pens on Benbecula yesterday, Minister for Parliamentary Business Joe FitzPatrick said: “I am delighted that these 40 new jobs have been created as the company continues its drive to capture a foothold in lucrative international markets.
“It is good news for the Western Isles economy.
“The Scottish Government is supporting investment to strengthen the islands’ traditional industries and to grow new industries of the future,” added Mr FitzPatrick.
“We will also support ambitious Scottish companies as they access new markets.”
SSC managing director Craig Anderson said: “We are delighted to welcome the minister.
“We are extremely proud of the salmon we produce for customers and clients worldwide and by meeting the local managers and staff Mr FitzPatrick will get a real sense of the passion and commitment that they have for their work.”
Edinburgh-based SSC produces more than 20,000 tonnes of fish annually, accounting for an estimated 20% of total Scottish salmon.
The firm employs more than 400 people at 60 locations across the Highlands and islands, and supplies leading UK retailers and exports to more than 20 countries worldwide.
It sends about 40% of its output overseas, including to high-end retailers and restaurateurs in France and the US and also the emerging markets of Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Japan, Taiwan and China.