About the Association

Shetland Salmon Farmers' Association was launched on 27th July 1984 at a meeting attended by 8 of the salmon farming companies representing the newly emerging industry.

Since that date the industry has grown from strength to strength and, with it, so has the Association. Membership, which is entirely voluntary, currently (2004) stands at 46 (40 salmon farms and 6 hatcheries).

During this same period production has expanded from a mere 50 tonnes in 1984 to 10,500 in 1994 and an estimated 48,000 tonnes for the current year (2004).

From its earliest beginnings the Association has always sought to represent its members on a wide variety of issues. In the early days this was achieved through the offices of a part-time secretary and later part-time Chief Executive. However, as the work-load expanded it rapidly became apparent that a more effective and permanent office required to be established.

Photo: Left to Right:-
David Sandison (General Manager SSFA), staff members Diane Leyland and Anne-Lise Smith with Tavish Scott MSP

A full-time Chief Executive was appointed in February 1987 followed shortly thereafter by the employment of a Secretary and a part-time Administrative Assistant. The Association is now based in the purpose built Shetland Seafood Centre, within Stewart Building, in Lerwick. Stewart Building houses the sister organisations to the Shetland Salmon Farmers' Association, namely Seafood Shetland (formerly Shetland Fish Processors' Association) and Shetland Fishermen's Association.

As already mentioned the historic role of the Association has been many and varied. This continues as an ongoing situation and includes the following important areas:-

Representation with Governmental Department/Agencies
Marketing
Quality Control
Training
Insurance

The aims of the Shetland Salmon Farmers' Association are:-

To preserve and promote the interests of the members of the Association.
To provide such benefits including legal assistance and advice to the members.
To provide a forum for mutual discussion and agreements.
To act as a voice for the salmon industry in Shetland when dealing with Governmental Departments and Agencies.
To market and promote Shetland Salmon on a worldwide stage.