Traditional Peterhead fish market 'shout auction' to be replaced with new electronic system

A new electronic system is set to replace the Peterhead fish market's traditional 'shout auction' after members of the Aberdeenshire town's port authority board approved its introduction.

Peterhead Port Authority (PPA) launched a consultation on the switch earlier this year, with results showing an "overwhelming support" for its introduction.

PPA chief executive Graeme Reid heralded the move, saying: "This is an exciting moment for the Port and Peterhead community.

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"Peterhead Port Authority has invested around £70million on facilities in the Port in the last 10 years, and this next investment will further reinforce and future-proof Peterhead Port’s position as the leading fish port in Europe."

The consultation looked to highlight a number of challenges, which Mr Reid said the board is content with the solutions found to address the issues.

PPA staff had met with representatives from stakeholder groups to consider how the challenges could be resolved.

Work is now set to commence on detailed design of the E-auction system, involving further engagement with stakeholder groups.

Peterhead fish market has used the old method of buyers calling out their bids for boxes of fish for decades, but the new system would allow buyers to purchase their fish without being physically present.

The port authority previously said the move could "maximise supply and improve demand", with electronic auctions common in other markets.

Mr Reid previously explained when the consultation was first launched: "Due to recent fish landing placement toward harbours with electronic auctions, there is a significant threat to landings at Peterhead fish market.

"Electronic auctions are now commonplace in many markets and are in the process of being implemented in others.

"The board also recognises potential opportunities to maximise supply and improve demand by allowing purchases without being physically present."

It is hoped the new system will go live in early spring next year.