15 December, 2005

A SHETLAND salmon wholesaler scooped two major export awards at the Food from Britain Export awards yesterday (Wednesday).

Lerwick based Framgord was named both 'Scottish Exporter of the Year' and 'Frozen & Chilled Exporter of the Year'.

With more than 19 years export experience, Framgord has increased its overseas sales ten fold since 2002 in both the retail and food service areas.

Simon Waring, marketing and international management director at Food from Britain, said the Scottish Exporter of the Year award was given to Framgord for recognising that its market was becoming increasingly swamped by cheap Norwegian, Chilean and Faroese salmon.

He added that the company had set about developing a 'uniquely new' product that would create a higher gold standard in the world of salmon. After five years hard work its Shetland Salmon Natural Choice is now taking the overseas market by storm.

He said: "The judges were extremely impressed with the company's innovation, sound strategy and sheer determination in its approach to export markets.

"In response to the increasing number of cheap conventional salmon products on the market, the company took the brave decision to develop a unique 'par excellence' product that truly embodies the very best of nature, within an affordable price range. The commitment of Framgord to exporting has certainly paid off and the company has great plans for the future."

Framgord managing director Frank Johnson said: "We are delighted to have won recognition with these prestigious Food from Britain Export awards.

"We have put a great amount of effort into exporting, so it is very rewarding for our work overseas to be recognised in this way. Thanks to all our farmers and packers for their dedication, which has contributed greatly to our success."