Boost for Wester Ross economy as Scottish Salmon Company farm expansion announced for Applecross estate
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A MULTI-million pound fish farming investment in Wester Ross has been hailed as a sign of the company’s commitment to the area’s economy.
The Scottish Salmon Company (SSC) has announced major new freshwater projects that will see it invest roughly £10 million in its operational infrastructure and the rural economy, and provide job security for 21 full-time staff.
A new facility in the Applecross estate, Applecross Kishorn, is due to be completed in 2020 and will create a centre of excellence in freshwater production. SSC has also acquired two freshwater facilities in the area. These include on-shore hatchery Appleburn Couldoran and a nearby facility at Loch Damph, which will support increased smolt production.
To mark the new developments Applecross Kishorn and Appleburn Couldoran, SSC’s chief executive Craig Anderson planted Scottish heritage apple trees at both sites.
He said the new investments were part of SSC’s ongoing commitment to Scotland’s rural communities and economies.
They follow record results for the company in 2018, which saw revenues reach £180.1m and export volumes hit more than 60 per cent of sales – with particular success in key export markets in North America and the Far East.
Mr Anderson said: “We are making a significant investment in the Highlands and Islands which will strengthen our freshwater operational infrastructure and deliver greater capacity to meet the increasing global demand for our quality Scottish salmon.
“We are committed to responsible business growth in the communities in which our staff live and work, and to sustainably building on our positive economic impact in these rural areas.
“These infrastructure projects will mean long-term job security and more spending in the local area through our local sourcing policy.”
