OUR STORY

A little history

For more than 50 years, Warren and Paul are the founders of SeaFresh and have been dedicated to the sea, beginning with small inshore crab boats and working their way up to larger trawlers fishing far beyond Belfast Lough, including the English Channel and the North Sea. Over the decades, countless sea miles have been logged in pursuit of the finest seafood.

SeaFresh begins
In 2000, combining Warren’s fishing expertise with Paul’s sharp business skills, the pair founded SeaFresh to sell their own catch. What began as a small local venture – buying from their own boat and a handful of others in Bangor to supply local restaurants – soon grew. The business expanded to purchasing catches from Scallop boats, Prawn boats, and other Crab and Lobster vessels, supplying not just the local market but also a growing network across Europe from their factory.

Concord, a fishing boat from SeaFresh NI's history.

Amethyst, a fishing boat from SeaFresh NI's history.

Rosemary Ann, a fishing boat from SeaFresh NI's history.

Cynus Star, a fishing boat from SeaFresh NI's history.

Green Isle, a fishing boat from SeaFresh NI's history.

Heather Valley, a fishing boat from SeaFresh NI's history.

Alice, a fishing boat from SeaFresh NI's history.

Spindrift, a fishing boat from SeaFresh NI's history.

Huntress, a fishing boat from SeaFresh NI's history.

The next generation
After years of running trawlers and growing the business, Warren and Paul made the decision to downsize to a small crab boat, allowing them to focus on SeaFresh’s continued development. Around this time, a young 11-year-old named Stuart joined onboard the Spindrift, eager to learn the trade. His dedication and hard work paid off, and Stuart eventually became a director of SeaFresh alongside Warren and Paul.

SeaFresh today
Today, the trio remains committed to delivering the best quality fish and shellfish to local customers, restaurants, and international buyers. SeaFresh continues to be a proud Groomsport business, rooted in tradition yet focused on the future. SeaFresh does sell direct to the public every Friday from 12 noon to 4pm from their van in Groomsport. Visit SeaFresh on Facebook and Instagram at @seafresh_bangor to check out prices and how to preorder your locally and sustainably caught fish and shellfish.

A Lifetime of Dedication to Northern Ireland’s Scallop Fishery

Since its formation in 1993, the Northern Ireland Scallop Fishermen’s Association has been at the forefront of protecting and safeguarding the scallop fishing industry, not only in Northern Ireland but across the UK. From the very beginning, the Association has campaigned for measures such as curfews, restrictions on the number of dredge boat tows and important technical measures designed to ensure the long-term sustainability of the fishery. At the heart of this work has been Paul Leeman, who has proudly chaired the Association from its formation in 1993 right through to today. For more than three decades, Paul has dedicated himself to giving Northern Ireland’s scallop fishermen a strong and respected voice, lobbying Government, the EU Parliament and decision-makers at the highest levels. His commitment, determination and tireless work have played a huge part in protecting the interests and future of the scallop fishing industry and the families and communities who depend upon it.

Still Rooted in Groomsport

SeaFresh continues to supply quality fish and shellfish to local customers, restaurants and buyers, while maintaining the strong connection to the fishing community that the business was built on.