Tesco (UK) has seen a steep rise in sales of more unusual varieties of fish, such as Grey Mullet, Megrim, Swordfish and Brill. 'Swordfish steak' and 'Monkfish tail' are becoming the 'fish-of-the-day' for an increasing number of Tesco shoppers.
The company sees a new training-scheme for fish-counter staff and the popularity of TV programmes such as Saturday Kitchen and Masterchef as contributing factors for the changing tastes.
As Andrew Haigh, Tesco fish buyer, explained: "We offer more fish choices than ever before, which has helped our customers to discover some of the more unusual but fantastic tasting varieties, like Monkfish, Swordfish and Megrim. All of our fish-counter colleagues are trained to help customers with their fish choices and can offer cooking and serving tips".
Tesco is working with the Sustainable Fisheries Partnership (SFP), to assess the sustainability of the fisheries from which it sources its fish. Its range of MSC-eco-labelled seafood has recently increased, from 15 to 80 lines. The MSC - or, Marine Stewardship Council - sets the global standard for sustainable fishing.
© 2016 European Supermarket Magazine – your source for the latest retail news. Article by Martha Sparrius. To subscribe to ESM: The European Supermarket Magazine, click here.
