Princes has welcomed the latest scientific assessments from the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES) indicating encouraging signs of recovery in North-East Atlantic mackerel stocks.

However, the company has emphasised that the fishery remains in a fragile position, cautioning seafood industry stakeholders against complacency and urging a steadfast commitment to long-term sustainability.

Interpreting the ICES advice

The recent ICES assessment highlights an improvement in stock biomass alongside an increase in recommended catch levels for 2027.

While this development demonstrates that stock management can work effectively when applied, corporate leadership stresses that the stock is still only marginally above critical biological limits.

David McDiarmid, corporate relations director for Princes Group, noted that procurement and sustainability decisions must be anchored in robust, long-term evidence rather than isolated headline figures.

“Healthy, well-managed fisheries are in everyone’s interest, and whilst we are encouraged by the progress in the recovery of North-East Atlantic mackerel stocks, the latest advice demonstrates why sustainability decisions need to be based on long-term evidence rather than a single headline figure,” said McDiarmid.

Persistent management challenges

Despite short-term improvements in stock biomass, several longstanding systemic challenges continue to impact the North-East Atlantic mackerel fishery. These key factors guide prudent seafood purchasing decisions:

• Commercial catches have consistently exceeded scientific advice.
• There remains an absence of an internationally agreed management framework or Total Allowable Catch (TAC).
• These governance hurdles previously contributed to the fishery losing its Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) certification.

Sourcing and the path forward

Reflecting its dedication to responsible sourcing and marine ecosystem health, Princes transitioned its branded mackerel range to MSC-certified Chilean jack mackerel in 2025. This move underscores the company’s philosophy that responsible businesses must look beyond short-term market fluctuations and align their supply chains with recognised certification standards and rigorous scientific evidence.

Looking ahead, Princes will continue to review its sourcing strategy in line with evolving science. Crucially, the company has confirmed that should the North-East Atlantic mackerel fishery regain its MSC certification, it would look to source the stock once again.