The Shellfish Association of Great Britain (SAGB), is proud to launch PotentShell — a bold and evidence-based report outlining the immense opportunity for growth in the UK’s shellfish aquaculture industry.

The report presents a clear message: with the right political will and regulatory support, England, Wales and Northern Ireland could increase their production of farmed shellfish by up to 400% over the next decade. Drawing on the proven success of the ‘Shetland model’, PotentShell outlines a path to replicate this progress through targeted support in three new regional aquaculture hubs.

The UK shellfish sector already has the ambition, expertise, and natural conditions to thrive. We boast a highly skilled workforce, strong collaboration with academia, and extensive, unspoiled coastline ideal for cultivation. Climate change, while challenging in many respects, is shifting marine conditions in our favour — placing the UK in pole position compared to our European neighbours.

Shellfish farming also brings serious environmental and health benefits. As zero-input systems, shellfish require no feed or veterinary treatments. Instead, they actively improve water quality and sequester carbon and nutrients — supporting biodiversity while producing one of the healthiest, most sustainable forms of protein available.

However, the report does not shy away from the challenges. The current regulatory landscape, legacy water quality issues, and the impacts of Brexit on exports are holding the industry back. Without serious, targeted intervention, the sector in much of the UK risks withering to a cottage industry.

PotentShell makes the case for action. It calls on policymakers and regulators to step up and support a sector that delivers on coastal employment, environmental restoration, public health, and food security.

📄 Read the full report and explore the supporting infographics
📧 For more information, contact SAGB at david@shellfish.org.uk

Now is the time to realise the UK’s shellfish potential.

Full report here: