An industry-leading Aycliffe seafood supplier continues to thrive and expand as it marks more than 40 years in business.
Collins Seafoods, based at Heighington Lane Business Park in Aycliffe, has been an integral part of the seafood industry since it was established in 1980.
It delivers to fish and chip shops, pubs and restaurants across the UK and Ireland, specialising in frozen at sea cod and haddock, but also offering a wide selection of sundries.
The founder, Richard Collins, started out delivering to hospitality venues and homes in his own Sherpa van, and when the business rapidly developed as his success grew, he decided he would need a base for his operation.
Richard started running the business from a unit on Northfield Road. He then moved into a space on Millennium Way next to Ruff ‘n’ Tumble Adventure World in 2000, which has been the firm’s HQ since, with Richard authorising the building of the offices inside the empty unit and the cold store in the warehouse.
Collins also supplies fish to several shops in Newton Aycliffe – including Simpasture Fisheries, Mike’s Fish Bar and Mr Chippy at Cobbler’s Hall.
This is just the tip of the iceberg, though, with Collins also delivering to thousands of businesses in the North of England. It also has a depot in Leeds to aid with distribution.
“The excellent location has aided the company to grow over the years,” said managing director Craig English.
“With the convenience of having quick access to the A1 and A66, we were able to supply to a larger geographic area, including the entire North-East, North-West, and the Scottish Borders.
“Our second depot in Leeds is also close to major transport links, mirroring the operation at our Newton Aycliffe site and enabling us to extend the reach of our services without compromising the quality of the products.”
Collins Seafoods is constantly improving its services, efficiency and sustainability.
“We are determined to ensure that we continue as one of the country’s leading suppliers of frozen at sea fish,” added Craig.
Find out more about Collins Seafoods at collinsseafoods.co.uk.
• Pictured above: Collins Seafoods managing director Craig English (centre) with sales and general manager Tonino Pagnanelli and operations manager Jill Saint.