Channel Fisheries Ltd - A brief history

Channel Fisheries was started by Nigel Ward and Martin Purnell in 1981. Nigel trained as a chef with Trust House Forte and Martin came from a sales background.

Our initial customer base was in Bath, Bristol and Weston-super-Mare and consisted mainly of French, Italian and Greek restauranteurs. We learned very quickly that the quality and freshness of our fish was the major factor considered by our customers when choosing their suppliers.

In 1984, our business expanded into Gloucestershire and Warwickshire, supplying the ever growing Country House Hotel market and it was around this time that we were asked to supply our first Michelin Star customers, further enhancing our reputation for quality and taking the business to a new higher level.

By 2001 we were supplying the Ritz Hotel, The Hotel Intercontinental, the House of Commons, several of the leading Gentlemen's dining clubs and many Michelin star establishments. In 2006, we were granted the Royal Warrant after many years of service to the Royal Household, and for us a recognition of 25 years dedication to quality .

Today, the company is recognised as one of the country's leading suppliers of fresh fish. Our portfolio of customers continues to grow and includes some of the most exclusive hotels and restaurants in the U.K.

Nigel and Martin are still both involved on a daily basis with all aspects of the business, including the morning's purchases from Brixham market and dealing personally with customer enquiries.

All of our local fish is purchased daily from the day boat fleet on Brixham, Plymouth and Looe markets, other species are sourced from Scotland, Brittany and Rungis market in Paris.

We have on site a dedicated and highly trained team who are able to offer a full preparation service.

 

 

Reserving the catch for Channel
Reserving the catch for ChannelA cold,still afternoon in Brixham harbourOne of the smaller boats in Brixham harbourThe first boat back as the sun risesNetsRiggingPilchards on icePredictions for the future of the fish cratesBrixham Harbour, a still dayThese ones will do for dinnerSorting by handWaiting for the auction bellBid away gentlemen



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