Scottish Shellfish Farm Production Survey 2017

Marine Scotland Science today published the Scottish Shellfish Farm Production Survey 2017. The publication details statistics on the employment, production and value of shellfish from Scottish Shellfish Farms. It is structured to follow industry trends within the mussel, Pacific oyster, native oyster, queen scallop and scallop species sectors. Some statistics are given for the 10-year period 2008-2017. 

The main findings are:

• Production tonnage of mussels increased by 6% from 7,732 tonnes in 2016 to 8,232 tonnes in 2017. This is the highest level of mussel production ever recorded in Scotland.
• Production of Pacific oyster shells increased by 42% from the 2016 total. Additionally, over 3.8 million shells were produced for on-growing in other waters.
• Employment levels increased by 4% from 2016, with 328 full, part-time and casual staff employed in 2017.
• Overall estimated first sale value of the industry was calculated to be approximately £12.4 million in 2017.

Background 

 The full statistical publication can be accessed.

The survey is compiled from data collected directly from authorised shellfish farming businesses

Official statistics are produced by professionally independent staff – more information on the standards of official statistics in Scotland can be accessed.