The IEA awards have recognised the achievements of companies working in Ireland's export industry for 24 years.
Photo: BIM.
Four Irish seafood businesses have been shortlisted for the inaugural Seafood Exporter of the Year award at the Irish Exporters Association (IEA) Export Industry Awards.
The "Seafood Exporter" is a new category, sponsored by Ireland's seafood development agency Bord Iascaigh Mhara (BIM), which aims to recognize the exceptional achievements of seafood exporters, highlighting their innovative product development and market access initiatives.
The shortlisted companies are four family businesses: Burren Smokehouse, a family-run smoked fish business operating since 1989 in Lisdoonvarna, Co. Clare; McBride Fishing Co. Ltd, a County Donegal family-owned fishing firm specialising in brown crab & European blue lobster; Shines Seafood, a family business based in Killybegs, Donegal, specialising in wild-caught Irish albacore tuna; and Carlingford Oyster Company, another family-run company producing premium Louët-Feisser oysters in Carlingford Lough, North-east Ireland.
An independent panel of judges evaluated the nominees on several criteria, including sustainability, product innovation, market access innovation, and operational excellence. Businesses were required to showcase new product developments, a strong commitment to sustainability, and innovative logistical or packing solutions for accessing new markets.
The judges will now review the shortlisted entries to identify the standout performer in each category. The winner of the Seafood Exporter of the Year 2024 will be announced at a prestigious black-tie awards ceremony on 27 September at the Dublin Convention Centre.