Barclays cash offers Unique Seafood room to grow

The finance package, which included a structured trade loan, would allow the seafood wholesaler and distributor to increase the level of seafood it purchases and consequently grow sales, it said.

Unique Seafood said it was also planning to buy an additional depot to expand its operation in Thamesmead, in order to supply more exotic fish types to its customers.

More storage​

“The Barclays finance package will enable Unique Seafood to increase capacity, have more storage space and increase customer services,”​ said the firm’s md Harald Nissen. “We look forward to working with Barclays as we embark on the next stage of our journey.”​

Sarah Collins, relationship director on Barclays’ retail & wholesale team, said: “Unique Seafood has carved a niche for itself in this competitive market and is enjoying strong growth. We are fully committed to supporting the business as it looks to diversify and expand into new markets.”​

Unique Seafood added that it had moved its daily banking services to Barclays, including cash collection, payments and foreign exchange facilities.

Three sites​

Established in 1997, Unique Seafoods has an annual turnover of £25M and operates from three sites in Thamesmead in London, Cricklade near Swindon and Mildenhall near Cambridge.

With 62 employees, the business supplies its UK customers with fresh sustainable seafood, including individually quick frozen cod, haddock and fish cakes, direct from its own fishing boats.

It supplies the wholesale, industrial and foodservice sectors, in addition to supplying more than 2,500 fish and chip shops and restaurants across Britain, and promotes sustainability through Marine Stewardship Council certification.