ORKNEY Crab has upgraded its vacuum packing as part of a £408,000 project to boost production at its Stromness base.
The company processes up to 2,000 tonnes of crab each year for major UK retailers and exports crab products and whelks across Europe and Asia.
The development was backed by £132,675 in support from Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE), enabling the purchase of new energy-efficient equipment.
The new equipment will automate parts of production, increase capacity, and free up staff for a wider range of tasks – helping to expand the company’s production capabilities. This includes a new grading machine to improve efficiency, two new pasteurising ovens, and a thermoformer machine to upgrade vacuum packing.
Orkney Crab Ltd, a subsidiary of PDK Shellfish Ltd, took over the Orkney Fishermen’s Society in late 2023 and currently employs 55 people. Alongside growing production, the company is committed to reducing energy use and lowering its carbon footprint. Orkney Crab has also managed to turn it’s crab waste into a revenue stream as part of a circular‑economy approach.
Ruth Kirkpatrick, HIE area team leader in Orkney, said, “We’re delighted that we were able to support this project. These improvements strengthen an important local employer, create new jobs for Orkney, and help build resilience in our food and seafood sector.
“The move towards greater efficiency and reduced energy use also supports our wider sustainability ambitions for the islands. We look forward to continuing to work with Orkney Crab as these new processes become established. We’re also interested in hearing from any other businesses interested in increasing productivity.”
Orkney Crab director, Paul Knight, added, “Since launching in 2023, Orkney Crab has worked to establish a reputation for high-quality, sustainably sourced brown crab products in international markets. As a business operating in a remote island location, rising energy and operational costs remain a major challenge. This support from HIE is hugely appreciated and will help us invest in our plant, improve efficiency, and support the continued growth of the business.”
