Groundfish Market
By Species;
Cod, Haddock, Pollock, Sole and OthersBy Application;
Food Industry, Pharmaceuticals, Animal Feed and OthersBy Distribution Channel;
Online Retail, Supermarkets & Hypermarkets, Specialty Stores and OthersBy Geography;
North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa and Latin America - Report Timeline (2021 - 2031)Groundfish Market Overview
Groundfish Market (USD Million)
Groundfish Market was valued at USD 11,694.92 million in the year 2024.The size of this market is expected to increase to USD 15,462.38 million by the year 2031, while growing at a Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 4.1%.
Groundfish Market
*Market size in USD million
CAGR 4.1 %
Study Period | 2025 - 2031 |
---|---|
Base Year | 2024 |
CAGR (%) | 4.1 % |
Market Size (2024) | USD 11,694.92 Million |
Market Size (2031) | USD 15,462.38 Million |
Market Concentration | High |
Report Pages | 310 |
Major Players
- More Codfish Co
- Bluenose Seafood
- Greenland Seafood Europe GmbH
- High Liner Foods Inc.,
- Mowi ASA,
- Nomad Foods Ltd.,
- The Fishin Co
- Trident Seafoods Corp.,
- Youngs Seafood Ltd.
Market Concentration
Consolidated - Market dominated by 1 - 5 major players
Groundfish Market
Fragmented - Highly competitive market without dominant players
The Groundfish Market is gaining traction as consumer demand for seafood continues to rise. With more than 45% of growth supported by protein-focused diets, groundfish including cod, pollock, and haddock are becoming essential in meal planning. Their nutritional advantages are positioning them as one of the most sought-after seafood categories.
Health & Nutritional Demand
Packed with lean protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and vital nutrients, groundfish have become a preferred choice for health-conscious buyers. Around 40% of consumption is directly influenced by shifts toward healthy eating, underscoring their role in meeting modern dietary preferences.
Processing & Product Expansion
Advances in processing, freezing, and packaging have boosted groundfish availability and variety. Nearly 30% of production is associated with value-added forms like fillets, breaded fish, and pre-cooked items. These innovations help cater to convenience-driven consumers and support consistent quality across markets.
Foodservice Sector Growth
Groundfish are increasingly favored by the foodservice industry, which absorbs about 35% of supply. Their adaptability in diverse dishes and cuisines strengthens their demand in restaurants, hotels, and catering channels, reflecting their expanding role in commercial kitchens.
Focus on Sustainable Practices
Sustainability remains a priority in the market, with close to 25% of operations adopting eco-certified fishing practices. This shift highlights rising awareness among consumers and businesses, ensuring that groundfish sourcing supports both ethical trade and long-term industry stability.
Groundfish Market Recent Developments
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In June 2022, Mitsubishi Corporation (MC) and Maruha Nichiro Corporation (Maruha Nichiro) announced an agreement to establish a new joint venture company, ATLAND Corporation, that specializes in the land-based production of salmon.
Segment Analysis
This report extensively covers different segments of Global Groundfish Market has been segmented by Applications, Product and Geography.
The global groundfish market is segmented by applications into the food industry, which includes ready-to-eat meals and fish-based snacks, and retail and supermarkets, featuring fresh fish counters and packaged frozen products. This segmentation highlights the diverse utilization of groundfish in various consumer and commercial food settings. The Global Groundfish Market has been segmented by product into Alaska pollock, blue whiting, Atlantic cod, hake, and others. This segmentation categorizes the market based on specific groundfish species, highlighting their individual contributions to the overall market. The global groundfish market is segmented by geography into major regions such as North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and Middle East & Africa, reflecting regional variations in consumption, production, and regulatory frameworks affecting groundfish fisheries and markets worldwide.
Global Groundfish Segment Analysis
In this report, the Global Groundfish Market has been segmented by Applications, Product and Geography.
Global Groundfish Market, Segmentation by Applications
Global Groundfish Market, Segmentation by Applications into Food Industry, Retail and Supermarkets.
The food industry is a major application segment of the global groundfish market, utilizing various groundfish species in numerous products. Groundfish are commonly used in ready-to-eat meals, fish sticks, surimi, and other processed foods. Their firm texture and mild flavor make them versatile ingredients in a wide range of culinary applications, from gourmet dishes in fine dining restaurants to convenient frozen dinners for busy households. The demand for groundfish in the food industry is driven by consumer preferences for healthy, protein-rich, and easy-to-prepare meals. Retail and supermarkets represent another significant application segment in the groundfish market. Fresh groundfish products, such as whole fish and fillets, are prominently featured at fish counters, attracting customers who prefer cooking with fresh ingredients. Additionally, supermarkets offer a variety of frozen groundfish products, including fillets and value-added options like breaded fish sticks, catering to the growing demand for convenient and long-lasting food options. Canned groundfish products also occupy shelf space in supermarkets, providing consumers with versatile and ready-to-eat choices. The segmentation of the global groundfish market by applications into the food industry and retail and supermarkets highlights the extensive utilization of groundfish in various consumer markets. While the food industry focuses on incorporating groundfish into processed and ready-to-eat meals, retail and supermarkets emphasize the availability of both fresh and frozen groundfish products. This segmentation underscores the importance of groundfish in meeting diverse consumer needs, from health-conscious home cooks to convenience-seeking shoppers, thereby driving the overall growth of the groundfish market.
Global Groundfish Market, Segmentation by Product
The Global Groundfish Market has been segmented by Product into Alaska pollock, Blue whiting, Atlantic cod, Hake and Others.
Alaska pollock is a dominant segment in the global groundfish market due to its widespread use in various food products, including fish fillets, surimi, and fish sticks. Known for its mild flavor and flaky texture, Alaska pollock is highly favored by both consumers and the food industry. Its versatility and relatively low cost make it a staple in processed seafood products, catering to the high demand for affordable and convenient protein sources. The extensive harvesting of Alaska pollock, particularly in the North Pacific, underscores its critical role in the groundfish market. Blue whiting and Atlantic cod are also significant segments within the groundfish market. Blue whiting, mainly harvested in the North Atlantic, is valued for its use in fish meal and surimi production, contributing to both human consumption and animal feed industries. Atlantic cod, a traditional favorite in many cuisines, is prized for its firm, white flesh and delicate flavor. Despite facing challenges from overfishing, Atlantic cod remains a popular choice for fresh and frozen fillets, supporting various culinary applications and sustaining its market presence. Hake, another important groundfish species, is commonly found in both the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Known for its tender flesh and mild taste, hake is a popular choice in European and South American markets. It is frequently used in frozen and processed forms, such as fillets and fish sticks. The Others category encompasses a variety of lesser-known groundfish species that also contribute to the market. These include species like flounder, haddock, and sole, which are harvested globally and serve diverse regional markets. This segmentation by product type highlights the broad range of groundfish species that collectively drive the global market, each with its unique attributes and market dynamics.
Global Groundfish Market, Segmentation by Geography
In this report, the Global Groundfish Market has been segmented by Geography into five regions; North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa and Latin America.
Global Groundfish Market Share (%), by Geographical Region, 2024
North America, including the United States and Canada, is a major player in the market due to its significant consumption and production of groundfish, particularly species like Alaska pollock and Atlantic cod. The region benefits from robust fishing industries and advanced processing facilities, supplying both domestic and international markets with a wide range of groundfish products. Europe, encompassing countries such as Norway, Iceland, and the United Kingdom, also holds a substantial market share. These countries are known for their sustainable fishing practices and high-quality groundfish exports, meeting the demand across Europe and beyond.
Asia-Pacific is another key region in the global groundfish market, driven by countries like China, Japan, and South Korea. These nations are major consumers and importers of groundfish, utilizing them extensively in traditional and modern cuisine. The region's growing population and rising disposable incomes contribute to increasing demand for seafood, including groundfish products. Additionally, Latin America and regions in the Middle East and Africa play significant roles in the market, albeit with smaller market shares compared to North America and Asia-Pacific. These regions are characterized by emerging markets and evolving consumer preferences, influencing the demand for various groundfish species.
Overall, the segmentation of the global groundfish market by geography reflects the diverse regional contributions to production, consumption, and trade. Each region's economic, environmental, and regulatory factors shape its role in the global seafood industry, influencing the supply chain from fishing grounds to consumer markets worldwide. Understanding these geographical segments is crucial for stakeholders in navigating market opportunities, challenges, and trends affecting the global groundfish market.
Market Trends
This report provides an in depth analysis of various factors that impact the dynamics of Global Groundfish Market. These factors include; Market Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities Analysis.
Drivers, Restraints and Opportunity Analysis
Drivers
- Rising Seafood Consumption
- Advancements in Aquaculture
- Technological Innovations
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Health Benefits Awareness: Awareness of the health benefits associated with groundfish consumption is a significant driver in the global market. Groundfish, such as cod, haddock, and pollock, are rich sources of high-quality protein, essential vitamins, and minerals, making them an integral part of a balanced diet. They are particularly valued for their low fat content and high levels of omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to support cardiovascular health, reduce inflammation, and improve brain function. As consumers become more health-conscious, there is an increasing demand for nutrient-dense foods, leading to a surge in groundfish consumption. Public health campaigns and dietary guidelines worldwide frequently highlight the advantages of including seafood, especially groundfish, in regular meals, further bolstering market growth.
Moreover, the shift towards natural and wholesome foods has spurred interest in groundfish as a sustainable and healthy protein alternative. As more research underscores the long-term health benefits of regular fish consumption, particularly in preventing chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers, consumers are more inclined to incorporate groundfish into their diets. This growing health awareness is not only boosting direct consumer demand but also encouraging food service industries and retailers to offer a wider variety of groundfish products. Consequently, the market is witnessing an expansion in product offerings, ranging from fresh and frozen fillets to convenient, ready-to-cook options, catering to the evolving preferences of health-conscious consumers.
Restraints
- Overfishing Concerns
- Regulatory Challenges
- Environmental Changes
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High Production Costs: High production costs represent a significant restraint in the global groundfish market. The expenses associated with fishing operations, including fuel, labor, and maintenance of vessels, are substantial. Additionally, the cost of adhering to stringent regulatory requirements for sustainable fishing practices and environmental compliance adds to the financial burden on fisheries. These factors contribute to increased operational expenses, making groundfish less competitive compared to other, more cost-effective protein sources. As a result, producers face challenges in maintaining profitability, which can limit the market's growth potential.
Moreover, the processing and distribution of groundfish entail considerable costs. Investments in advanced processing technologies, quality control measures, and logistics infrastructure are necessary to ensure that groundfish products meet market standards and reach consumers in optimal condition. Cold chain management, packaging, and transportation, particularly for international trade, add further to the overall production costs. These financial pressures can lead to higher prices for end consumers, potentially reducing demand. Consequently, high production costs remain a critical barrier that the industry must address to achieve sustainable growth and competitiveness in the global seafood market.
Opportunities
- Sustainable Practices Adoption
- Emerging Markets Expansion
- Product Diversification Potential
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Aquaculture Investments Growth: The growth of investments in aquaculture presents a significant opportunity for the global groundfish market. As wild fish stocks face increasing pressures from overfishing and environmental changes, aquaculture offers a sustainable alternative to meet the rising demand for groundfish. Investments in modern aquaculture technologies and practices have led to improved efficiency, higher yields, and better-quality fish. These advancements have made it possible to farm groundfish species such as cod and pollock more effectively, ensuring a steady and reliable supply. The expansion of aquaculture operations not only supports the market's growth but also helps in mitigating the environmental impact of traditional fishing practices.
Furthermore, increased funding and research in aquaculture are driving innovation and development in the industry. Governments and private investors are recognizing the potential of aquaculture to contribute to food security and economic growth. This influx of capital is facilitating the establishment of new aquaculture facilities, the adoption of sustainable farming methods, and the enhancement of existing infrastructure. As a result, the groundfish market is benefiting from a more diverse and resilient supply chain. By reducing reliance on wild catches and promoting sustainable production, aquaculture investments are poised to play a crucial role in the future expansion and stability of the global groundfish market.
Groundfish Market Competitive Landscape Analysis
Groundfish Market competition is shaped by fleet consolidation, quota access, and brand positioning across retail and foodservice. Leaders deploy bold strategies, deepen supplier collaboration, and pursue selective partnerships to secure year-round supply and quality grades. Differentiation leans on certified sourcing and traceability, underpinned by incremental process innovation. Premiumization sustains resilient growth, while demand volatility rewards agile pricing around 65% contracted volumes.
Market Structure and Concentration
Licensing frameworks and multi-species quotas favor scaled operators, with top tiers often commanding near 58% of value through integrated harvesting, processing, and distribution. Portfolio breadth buffers biomass cycles and bycatch limits. Strategic merger playbooks target plant utilization and route density. Capacity swaps and joint auctions align strategies, while disciplined footprint expansion preserves margins alongside targeted partnerships.
Brand and Channel Strategies
Brands court chefs and retailers with provenance stories, consistency specs, and ready-to-cook formats, steering mix toward higher-yield cuts near 44% share in premium assortments. Omnichannel activations elevate trust via QR traceability and menu co-creation. Category captains refine assortment strategies, leverage chef-driven collaboration, and expand private-label partnerships. Measured expansion into e-procurement aligns with sustainable growth.
Innovation Drivers and Technological Advancements
Processing innovation centers on glazing, portioning, and cold-chain controls that lift yield recovery toward 12% efficiency gains. Sensors, e-logbooks, and route analytics reduce fuel intensity and spoilage risk. Data-enabled TAC forecasting sharpens bidding strategies. Fillet robotics and AI grading exemplify technological advancements, while product-development partnerships with chefs accelerate format expansion.
Regional Momentum and Expansion
Procurement shifts track biomass and policy cycles, concentrating commitments around corridors exceeding 37% of contracted intake. Northern grounds favor IQF programs; Atlantic hubs emphasize fresh channels. Cross-border partnerships stabilize year-round availability. Regional menu adoption propels measured expansion, while localized branding and bilingual packaging refine strategies that reinforce premium cues and sustained growth.
Future Outlook
Forward views prioritize resilient supply stacks, with hedged quotas and diversified species mix approaching 33% of planned volumes. Leaders will codify pricing strategies, deepen science-based collaboration, and pursue tuck-in merger moves to enhance utilization. Pipeline innovation in ready-to-heat cuts and regenerative claims supports disciplined expansion, under a transparent, standards-led future outlook for buyers and consumers.
Key players in Groundfish Market include
- American Seafoods Group LLC
- Trident Seafoods
- Mowi ASA
- High Liner Foods Inc.
- AS More Codfish
- Bluenose Seafood
- Carsoe Seafood ApS
- Glacier Fish Co
- KARRO Food Group
- LEE Fish
- Metro Seafood Ltd.
- Nissui Corporation
- OM Seafood Co.
- Pacific Dream Seafood
- Surapon Foods Public Co. Ltd.
In this report, the profile of each market player provides following information:
- Company Overview and Product Portfolio
- Market Share Analysis
- Key Developments
- Financial Overview
- Strategies
- Company SWOT Analysis
- Introduction
- Research Objectives and Assumptions
- Research Methodology
- Abbreviations
- Market Definition & Study Scope
- Executive Summary
- Market Snapshot, By Species
- Market Snapshot, By Application
- Market Snapshot, By Distribution Channel
- Market Snapshot, By Region
- Groundfish Market Dynamics
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Drivers
- Rising Seafood Consumption
- Advancements in Aquaculture
- Technological Innovations
- Health Benefits Awareness
- Restraints
- Overfishing Concerns
- Regulatory Challenges
- Environmental Changes
- High Production Costs
- Opportunities
- Sustainable Practices Adoption
- Emerging Markets Expansion
- Product Diversification Potential
- Aquaculture Investments Growth
- Drivers
- PEST Analysis
- Political Analysis
- Economic Analysis
- Social Analysis
- Technological Analysis
- Porter's Analysis
- Bargaining Power of Suppliers
- Bargaining Power of Buyers
- Threat of Substitutes
- Threat of New Entrants
- Competitive Rivalry
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Market Segmentation
- Groundfish Market, By Species, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Cod
- Haddock
- Pollock
- Sole
- Others
- Groundfish Market, By Application, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Food Industry
- Pharmaceuticals
- Animal Feed
- Others
- Groundfish Market, By Distribution Channel, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Online Retail
- Supermarkets & Hypermarkets
- Specialty Stores
- Others
- Groundfish Market, By Geography, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- North America
- United States
- Canada
- Europe
- Germany
- United Kingdom
- France
- Italy
- Spain
- Nordic
- Benelux
- Rest of Europe
- Asia Pacific
- Japan
- China
- India
- Australia & New Zealand
- South Korea
- ASEAN (Association of South East Asian Countries)
- Rest of Asia Pacific
- Middle East & Africa
- GCC
- Israel
- South Africa
- Rest of Middle East & Africa
- Latin America
- Brazil
- Mexico
- Argentina
- Rest of Latin America
- North America
- Groundfish Market, By Species, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Competitive Landscape
- Company Profiles
- American Seafoods Group LLC
- Trident Seafoods
- Mowi ASA
- High Liner Foods Inc.
- AS More Codfish
- Bluenose Seafood
- Carsoe Seafood ApS
- Glacier Fish Co
- KARRO Food Group
- LEE Fish
- Metro Seafood Ltd.
- Nissui Corporation
- OM Seafood Co.
- Pacific Dream Seafood
- Surapon Foods Public Co. Ltd.
- Company Profiles
- Analyst Views
- Future Outlook of the Market