Skipper show will be ‘busier than ever’

THE Scottish fishing industry will gather in Aberdeen next week for the annual Skipper Expo, which has attracted a strong international presence this year.
With around 200 stands, the exhibition will provide a comprehensive showcase for the Scottish fishing industry when it opens its doors on Friday, May 25.
The two-day show will see more than 30 new exhibitors this year, giving fishermen and other visitors the chance to see the latest equipment and support services available.
Sponsored by the Scottish Fishermen’s Federation and attended by Fergus Ewing, Cabinet Secretary for the Rural Economy and Connectivity, this year’s event takes place against the backdrop of Brexit and its implications for the industry.
Due to the expo’s popularity, it will be opening one hour earlier on both days – from 9am to 5pm on May 25, and 9am to 4pm on May 26.
Highlights include three boat displays, a seafood tasting stand, and safety demonstrations, to be held each day at 12.30pm and hosted by the RNLI.
Another attraction will be a seafood buffet and dance for exhibitors and invited guests at the Douglas Hotel on the Friday evening, hosted by show organiser Mara Media.
Sharon Boyle of Mara Media said: ‘The amount of interest in this year’s expo has been incredible, with an excellent exhibitor presence that includes many first-time attendees.
‘With a strong international presence and many Scottish skippers now investing in the future, this year’s event looks set to be busier than ever.’
Skipper Expo Int. Aberdeen 2018 will be held at the AECC on May 25-26. Entry is free and visitors can pre-register by visiting http://www.maramedia.ie/aberdeen-home and then clicking the link for the visitor registration page.
Picture: Fergus Ewing (right) and Scottish Fishermen\’s Federation chief Bertie Armstrong (second right) at last year\’s show