Europe Seafood Market Report | Market Size, Industry Analysis, Growth Opportunities, & Forecast (2025-2030)

Europe Seafood Market Overview

The Europe seafood market is experiencing significant growth due to increasing consumer demand for healthy and sustainable food options. Seafood is a key component of the European diet, with rising awareness of its nutritional benefits, including high protein content and essential omega-3 fatty acids. The market is driven by factors such as population growth, changing dietary preferences, and advancements in aquaculture technology.

Sustainability and traceability are major concerns in the industry, prompting regulatory bodies and market players to adopt eco-friendly fishing practices and certifications. Countries such as Norway, Spain, and the United Kingdom are key contributors to the market, with strong seafood production and export capacities. Additionally, the expansion of e-commerce and improved cold-chain logistics have boosted accessibility and distribution.

Challenges such as overfishing, climate change, and supply chain disruptions pose risks to market growth. However, innovations in sustainable fishing, alternative seafood products, and government initiatives supporting the seafood industry present new opportunities. Overall, the Europe seafood market is poised for steady growth, driven by consumer awareness, technological advancements, and regulatory support.

This report provides an in-depth analysis of market trends, key players, challenges, and future growth prospects in the Europe seafood industry.

Market Report Coverage:

The “Europe Seafood Market Report—Future (2025-2030)” by Digiroads Research & Consulting covers an in-depth analysis of the following segments in the market.

Study Assumptions and Definitions

This report on the Europe Seafood Market is based on key assumptions regarding market dynamics, economic conditions, and industry developments. The study considers factors such as consumer preferences, regulatory policies, technological advancements, and sustainability trends that influence seafood production and consumption. It assumes that demand for seafood will continue to rise due to increasing health consciousness, population growth, and advancements in aquaculture. Additionally, external factors like trade regulations, climate change, and supply chain disruptions are accounted for in market projections.

Definitions:

• Seafood: Refers to edible marine and freshwater organisms, including fish, shellfish, and mollusks, consumed as food.
• Aquaculture: The breeding, rearing, and harvesting of fish and other aquatic species in controlled environments.
• Wild-Caught Seafood: Fish and other seafood harvested directly from natural water bodies, including oceans, rivers, and lakes.
• Sustainable Seafood: Seafood sourced through environmentally responsible fishing and aquaculture practices, ensuring long-term viability.
• Processed Seafood: Any seafood product that has undergone freezing, smoking, drying, canning, or other value-adding processes.
• HoReCa: The hotel, restaurant, and catering industry segment, which is a major consumer of seafood.

Market Scope

The Europe Seafood Market encompasses the production, processing, distribution, and consumption of seafood across the region. It includes both wild-caught and farmed seafood, covering various product categories such as fresh, frozen, canned, and processed seafood. The market is driven by factors such as increasing consumer preference for protein-rich diets, sustainability initiatives, and technological advancements in aquaculture and cold-chain logistics.

The study analyzes key seafood species, including fish (salmon, tuna, cod, mackerel), shellfish (shrimp, crab, lobster), and mollusks (squid, octopus, mussels). It also examines major distribution channels such as supermarkets, specialty stores, online retail, and the HoReCa sector.

Geographically, the report covers major European seafood-producing and consuming countries, including Norway, Spain, the UK, France, Germany, and Italy. Additionally, it assesses market trends, challenges such as overfishing and regulatory constraints, and emerging opportunities like plant-based seafood alternatives and sustainable fishing practices.

MARKET OUTLOOK

Executive Summary

The Europe Seafood Market is witnessing steady growth, driven by rising consumer demand for healthy and sustainable food options. Seafood is a staple in European diets, with increasing awareness of its nutritional benefits, such as high protein and essential omega-3 fatty acids. The market is expanding due to advancements in aquaculture, improved cold-chain logistics, and a growing preference for ethically sourced seafood.

The industry is segmented based on product type (fresh, frozen, canned, and processed seafood), species (fish, shellfish, mollusks), distribution channels (supermarkets, specialty stores, online retail, and HoReCa), and sustainability factors (wild-caught vs. farmed seafood). Countries like Norway, Spain, the UK, France, Germany, and Italy play a significant role in seafood production and consumption.

However, the market faces challenges such as overfishing, climate change, and regulatory constraints. Stringent policies by the European Union aim to promote sustainable fishing, while industry players focus on eco-friendly practices, certifications like MSC and ASC, and alternative seafood products.

Despite these challenges, opportunities for growth exist through technological innovations in aquaculture, increasing adoption of plant-based seafood alternatives, and the expansion of e-commerce channels. Consumer preferences are shifting towards traceable and organic seafood products, further shaping market trends.

This report provides an in-depth analysis of the current market landscape, key players, industry challenges, and future growth potential. It evaluates the impact of economic trends, sustainability initiatives, and trade policies on the seafood sector. With rising health awareness and regulatory support for sustainable fishing, the Europe seafood market is expected to grow steadily in the coming years.

COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

Key Market Players

• Marine Harvest (Mowi ASA)

• Thai Union Group

• Nomad Foods

• Nueva Pescanova Group

• SalMar ASA

• Lerøy Seafood Group

• Clearwater Seafoods

• Young’s Seafood

• High Liner Foods

• Orkla ASA

Market Share Analysis

The Europe Seafood Market is highly competitive, with major players dominating various segments, including wild-caught seafood, aquaculture, processed seafood, and distribution. Norway leads in salmon production, with companies like Mowi ASA, SalMar ASA, and Lerøy Seafood Group holding significant market shares in farmed seafood. These companies leverage advanced aquaculture technologies to ensure sustainable and high-yield production.

Spain, the UK, and France are among the top seafood consumers, with companies like Nueva Pescanova Group and Young’s Seafood playing key roles in supplying processed and fresh seafood. Nomad Foods dominates the frozen seafood segment with well-known brands such as Birds Eye, Findus, and Iglo. Thai Union Group and High Liner Foods are major players in the canned and value-added seafood sector.

Supermarkets and hypermarkets remain the dominant distribution channels, but e-commerce platforms are rapidly growing, driven by increasing consumer preference for home delivery and convenience. Sustainable seafood is gaining market share, with companies focusing on MSC and ASC certifications to meet regulatory and consumer demands.

With rising demand for traceable and eco-friendly seafood, market leaders continue to expand their operations, invest in technology, and explore alternative seafood solutions to maintain and increase their market share.

MARKET DYNAMICS

Market Drivers and Key Innovations

Market Drivers

1. Rising Health Awareness – Consumers are increasingly choosing seafood for its high protein content, omega-3 fatty acids, and other essential nutrients that support heart and brain health.
2. Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Practices – Growing concerns over overfishing and environmental impact have led to a demand for sustainably sourced seafood. Certifications like MSC (Marine Stewardship Council) and ASC (Aquaculture Stewardship Council) are influencing purchasing decisions.
3. Technological Advancements in Aquaculture – Improved breeding techniques, automated feeding systems, and disease control methods are enhancing seafood production efficiency and sustainability.
4. Expansion of Online Retail and Cold-Chain Logistics – The rise of e-commerce platforms has made seafood more accessible, with advanced cold-chain logistics ensuring quality and freshness during transportation.
5. Government Regulations and Support – The European Union’s strict policies on sustainable fishing and seafood traceability are shaping industry standards and fostering responsible practices.

Key Innovations

1. Alternative Seafood Products – Companies are investing in plant-based and lab-grown seafood to address sustainability concerns and cater to the growing vegan and flexitarian markets.
2. Blockchain for Supply Chain Transparency – Blockchain technology is being adopted to enhance traceability, reduce fraud, and provide consumers with verified sourcing information.
3. Smart Aquaculture Systems – AI-powered monitoring systems and IoT-enabled sensors are optimizing water quality, feeding patterns, and disease detection in fish farms.

4. Eco-Friendly Packaging – Sustainable packaging solutions, such as biodegradable materials and recyclable containers, are becoming a key focus in seafood distribution.
5. Genetic Improvement in Aquaculture – Research on genetic selection is leading to disease-resistant and fast-growing fish breeds, improving aquaculture yield and reducing environmental impact.

Market Challenges

1. Overfishing and Depleting Marine Resources – Excessive fishing activities have led to declining fish populations, putting pressure on seafood sustainability.
2. Climate Change Impact – Rising sea temperatures, ocean acidification, and unpredictable weather patterns are affecting fish habitats and seafood availability.
3. Strict Regulatory Compliance – The European Union imposes stringent regulations on fishing quotas, traceability, and sustainability, increasing operational challenges for seafood companies.
4. Supply Chain Disruptions – Transportation delays, rising fuel costs, and logistical inefficiencies affect the timely delivery of fresh and frozen seafood.
5. Disease and Contamination Risks – Aquaculture farms are vulnerable to fish diseases and contamination, leading to production losses and stricter safety measures.
6. Rising Costs of Sustainable Practices – While sustainable fishing and aquaculture are essential, they often come with higher costs for certifications, eco-friendly equipment, and compliance measures.
7. Competition from Alternative Proteins – The growing popularity of plant-based and lab-grown seafood is increasing competition for traditional seafood products.
8. Consumer Concerns Over Mercury and Microplastics – Health-conscious consumers are becoming wary of seafood contamination, affecting purchasing decisions.
9. Fluctuating Market Prices – Seasonal variations, demand shifts, and external economic factors contribute to seafood price instability.
10. Geopolitical and Trade Restrictions – Import/export restrictions, tariffs, and political instability can disrupt seafood trade within Europe and globally.

Market Opportunities

1. Growing Demand for Sustainable Seafood – Consumers are increasingly choosing MSC and ASC-certified seafood, creating opportunities for eco-friendly fishing and aquaculture businesses.
2. Expansion of Plant-Based and Lab-Grown Seafood – The rising trend of vegan and flexitarian diets is driving demand for alternative seafood products, opening new market segments.
3. Advancements in Aquaculture Technology – AI-driven monitoring, IoT-based sensors, and genetic improvements are boosting production efficiency and sustainability.
4. Rising Popularity of Online Seafood Retail – E-commerce platforms and home delivery services are expanding, offering convenience and access to a wider variety of seafood.
5. Innovation in Seafood Processing and Value-Added Products – Ready-to-eat meals, marinated seafood, and frozen gourmet products cater to busy consumers seeking convenience.
6. Emerging Markets in Eastern Europe – Countries in Eastern Europe are showing increased seafood consumption, presenting new opportunities for exporters and distributors.
7. Adoption of Blockchain for Seafood Traceability – Enhanced transparency and fraud prevention through blockchain technology can improve consumer trust and regulatory compliance.
8. Eco-Friendly Packaging Solutions – The shift toward biodegradable and recyclable packaging aligns with sustainability trends and consumer preferences.
9. Investment in Functional and Nutrient-Rich Seafood – Seafood enriched with additional nutrients, probiotics, or omega-3 enhancements can appeal to health-conscious consumers.
10. Government Support for Sustainable Fisheries and Aquaculture – Subsidies, grants, and policy initiatives promoting responsible seafood production encourage industry growth.

RECENT STRATEGIES & DEVELOPMENTS IN THE MARKET

1. Expansion of Sustainable Aquaculture – Major players like Mowi ASA and SalMar ASA have invested in offshore fish farms and recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) to reduce environmental impact and increase production efficiency.
2. Mergers & Acquisitions – In 2023, Thai Union Group acquired a stake in Rügen Fisch AG, a German seafood company, to expand its footprint in the European market.
3. Growth of Plant-Based and Lab-Grown Seafood – Companies like Nestlé and Novish have introduced vegan seafood alternatives, responding to rising flexitarian diets in Europe.
4. Investment in Blockchain for Traceability – In 2022, Nueva Pescanova Group integrated blockchain technology to improve seafood tracking from catch to consumer, enhancing transparency and reducing fraud.
5. E-Commerce Expansion – Online seafood sales grew by 20% in 2023, with retailers like Tesco and Carrefour expanding their digital seafood offerings and direct-to-consumer services.
6. Eco-Friendly Packaging Initiatives – Lerøy Seafood Group and Nomad Foods have committed to 100% recyclable and biodegradable packaging by 2025, aligning with EU sustainability goals.
7. Regulatory Updates on Fishing Quotas – In 2023, the EU revised fishing quotas, reducing allowable catches for overfished species like cod and herring, affecting supply and pricing.
8. Strategic Partnerships for Sustainability – Mowi ASA partnered with WWF (World Wildlife Fund) in 2022 to develop more sustainable aquaculture practices and reduce carbon footprint.
9. Cold-Chain Logistics Enhancements – Investments in advanced refrigeration and AI-driven supply chain management have reduced seafood wastage and improved delivery efficiency.
10. Smart Aquaculture Expansion – The adoption of AI-powered feeding systems and IoT sensors in Norwegian and Scottish salmon farms has improved yield while minimizing environmental impact.

KEY BENEFITS FOR STAKEHOLDERS

1. Seafood Producers & Aquaculture Farms – Benefit from advanced aquaculture technologies, improved sustainability practices, and growing consumer demand for seafood. Increased investment in RAS (Recirculating Aquaculture Systems) and offshore farming enhances productivity and efficiency.
2. Retailers & Supermarkets – Expansion of e-commerce and direct-to-consumer models increases sales opportunities. Sustainable and certified seafood products attract health-conscious and environmentally aware consumers.
3. Foodservice Industry (HoReCa) – Restaurants, hotels, and catering businesses gain from the rising demand for premium and ready-to-eat seafood products, with a focus on freshness and traceability.
4. Government & Regulatory Bodies – Implementation of sustainable fishing regulations and quotas supports environmental conservation while ensuring long-term seafood availability. Blockchain and traceability solutions enhance monitoring efficiency.
5. Seafood Processors & Distributors – Growing demand for processed, value-added, and convenience seafood products leads to higher revenue opportunities. Investments in cold-chain logistics improve product shelf life and reduce waste.
6. Investors & Market Entrants – Increasing market potential in sustainable aquaculture, plant-based seafood alternatives, and digital seafood trade creates profitable investment opportunities.
7. Environmental & Consumer Advocacy Groups – Enhanced transparency in sourcing, eco-friendly packaging, and strict regulatory frameworks contribute to better marine ecosystem protection and responsible seafood consumption.
8. Technology & Logistics Providers – Adoption of AI, IoT, blockchain, and automation in seafood farming, processing, and distribution opens new business prospects in smart aquaculture and supply chain innovation.

At DigiRoads Research, we emphasize reliability by employing robust market estimation and data validation methodologies. Our insights are further enhanced by our proprietary data forecasting model, which projects market growth trends up to 2030. This forward-thinking approach ensures our analysis not only captures the current market landscape but also anticipates future developments, equipping stakeholders with actionable foresight.

We go a step further by offering an exhaustive set of regional and country-level data points, supplemented by over 60 detailed charts at no additional cost. This commitment to transparency and accessibility allows stakeholders to gain a deep understanding of the industry’s structural and operational dynamics. By providing exclusive and hard-to-access data, DigiRoads Research empowers businesses to make informed strategic decisions with confidence.

In essence, our methodology and data delivery foster a collaborative and data-driven decision-making environment, enabling businesses to navigate industry challenges and capitalize on opportunities effectively.

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Table of Contents

• • INTRODUCTION

    • Market Overview
    • Years Considered for Study
    • Market Segmentation
    • Study Assumptions and Definitions
    • Market Scope

  • RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

  • MARKET OUTLOOK

    • Executive Summary
    • Market Snapshot
  • Market Segments 

• By Product Type

• • • • Fresh Seafood, Frozen Seafood, 
      • Canned Seafood, Processed Seafood, 
      • Smoked Seafood

• By Species

• • • Fish (Salmon, Tuna, Cod, Haddock, 
    • Mackerel, Others), 
    • Shellfish (Shrimp, Crab, Lobster, Others), 
    • Mollusks (Squid, Octopus, Clams, Mussels, Others)

• COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

• • Recent Strategies (Key Strategic Moves)
  • Market Share Analysis
  • Company Profiles

• Marine Harvest (Mowi ASA)

• Thai Union Group

• Nomad Foods

• Nueva Pescanova Group

• SalMar ASA

• Lerøy Seafood Group

• MARKET DYNAMICS

  • Market Drivers
  • Market Challenges
  • Market Opportunities
  • Porter’s Five Forces’ Analysis
    • Bargaining Power of Suppliers
    • Bargaining Power of Buyers
    • Threat of New Entrant
    • Threat of Substitutes
    • Competitive Rivalry

• GLOSSARY OF PROMINENT SECONDARY SOURCES

• DISCLAIMER

• ABOUT US