​Episode 8: Navigating Quotas, Brexit, and Sustainability with Bobby Joyce

In this episode of the Ceres Podcast, Stelios interviews Bobby Joyce from Smales Fish Merchants, diving into the complexities of the fish industry. The conversation starts with Bobby explaining his accidental entry into the fish trade, sparked by a casual connection through a friend. Since then, Bobby has spent nearly 17 years with Smales, a family-run business in Hull, and discusses the importance of the tight-knit nature of working for a family-owned operation. He reflects on the company’s deep-rooted history, starting in 1937, and the evolution of the fish industry, particularly the bold decision Smales made in the 1970s to embrace Frozen at Sea fish, which was quite pioneering at the time.

Bobby and Stelios discuss how the fish and chip industry relies heavily on Frozen at-sea fish due to its consistency and sustainability. They touch on the changing nature of the fishing industry, the impact of quotas, and how fish stocks are managed to ensure long-term sustainability. Bobby talks about the challenges of Brexit, particularly around tariffs and trade relationships with EU countries, but he remains optimistic that the industry will adapt and continue to thrive.

Much of the conversation revolves around the importance of sustainability certifications, such as the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) label. Bobby points out that while the MSC certification is valuable, it can be difficult for small shops to afford and navigate, especially compared to large retailers. They agree that simplifying the process could help more businesses get certified, increase consumer awareness, and benefit the industry overall.

The episode wraps up with a discussion about the future of the fish and chip industry, the need for business owners to focus on gross profit, and how some shops are shifting towards more specialised offerings to cater to evolving customer preferences. Bobby emphasises that fish and chip shops must balance quality and sustainability while adapting to changing market conditions and consumer expectations.