Last updated: 3 July, 2024 @ 18:15
“Dad looked into importing and selling Albacore Tuna in Ireland, and then found out that the fish were actually caught off our coast, but exported to Spain,” says Ciara, of Ireland-based Shines Seafood.
“Imagine we have the best Albacore on our doorstep, but were exporting it and bringing in cheap can Tuna from the Far East, which means it has a massive carbon footprint. It didn’t make sense.”
Locally-caught seafood
In an aim to highlight locally-caught seafood, and attract more tourists, Shines Seafood has now opened an ‘interpretative centre’ adjacent to their business in Killybegs, Co Donegal.
“Failte Ireland were encouraging food producers to attract tourists, and we were always hearing more is needed for visitors to Killybegs, so we decided to rise to the challenge and look at how we could add something of interest and increase footfall to our shop and overall sales at the same time,” said Ciara.
Fish tasting with Irish Tuna
“The interpretive centre offers a fish tasting experience using Irish Tuna, Irish Mackerel and Irish Sardines, and audio-visual aids to educate people about seafood,” said Ciara.
“The experience also familiarises people with our brand.”
A win-win
The company says that its best-known product is Wild Irish Tuna – which is caught off the west coast of Ireland.
“With the new interpretive centre people will be able to taste the Tuna and learn about its benefits,” said Ciara.
“It’s a win-win, as it benefits our business and the town of Killybegs.”