The OPP80, based in Ayamonte, announced this achievement at the 39th Gourmets Fair in Madrid, highlighting the uniqueness of its product. This recognition positions the shrimp from Huelva as a benchmark in the European market, underscoring the organization's commitment to responsible fishing practices.
Alonso Abreu, managing director of the OPP80, emphasized the growing consumer demand for sustainable products. For the organization, this certification not only represents a commercial advantage but also guarantees a future for generations to come in the fishing sector.
“"Sustainability sells. Consumers are increasingly interested in knowing where their food comes from and ensuring that marine resources are cared for. But for us, this label means much more than a commercial advantage: it is the guarantee that our children and grandchildren will be able to continue making a living from fishing."
The 'Friend of the Sea' certification, granted by the World Sustainability Organization, involves rigorous annual audits that assess catches, environmental impact, control of bycatch, and full product traceability. This process ensures compliance with the highest sustainability standards.
Participation in the Gourmets Fair is part of the OPP80's strategy to boost its online trade, which has seen continuous growth since the association became a Producer Organization in 2017. Through its platform www.lonjadeayamonte.es, the organization distributes fresh seafood throughout Spain in less than 24 hours, directly connecting consumers with the fishing vessels.
The Armadores Punta del Moral fleet comprises 46 vessels dedicated to various fishing methods, accounting for 40% of the Gulf of Cadiz quotas and approximately 80% of the bottom trawling census in Portuguese waters. Founded in 1995 as a cooperative, the organization now generates over 40 million euros annually in first sales and has a transnational character, including Portuguese vessels among its partners.
