Why Australian Seafood Matters for Smarter Sourcing
As the foodservice and retail sectors navigate evolving consumer expectations, logistics pressures, and environmental scrutiny, one factor remains central to decision-making: sourcing.
For seafood buyers, the question of where seafood comes from — and how it’s produced — is now just as important as price, margin, or format. In Australia, local and sustainable sourcing is no longer a luxury. It's a business essential.
Local Sourcing in a Global Market
Australia imports around 65% of the seafood it consumes, according to the FRDC. While imported product remains part of the mix, local sourcing offers clear operational, reputational, and compliance advantages.
Shorter supply chains improve control over quality and shelf life. Domestic logistics reduce exposure to global freight disruptions. And working with Australian processors and producers — such as KB Seafood Co — brings greater transparency around food safety, sustainability, and traceability.
“Ask a customer if they’d prefer Australian seafood and they’ll say yes,” says Tim Storey, CEO of KB Seafood Co. “But affordability still matters. That’s why we’ve built our business around offering both — quality Australian seafood, delivered at accessible price points.”
Sustainability as Operational Standard
Sustainability is no longer a point of difference — it's a procurement requirement. Retailers, wholesalers, and foodservice groups now seek MSC (Marine Stewardship Council) and ASC (Aquaculture Stewardship Council) certification as standard.
Australia’s fisheries and aquaculture systems are some of the most regulated globally. Quotas, monitoring, and ecosystem-based management ensure that commercial fishing supports long-term viability — and dependable supply.
Choosing certified local seafood supports business continuity while satisfying increasing regulatory and consumer scrutiny.
“We see sustainability as an operational imperative,” Tim explains. “It’s about how we source, how we pack, how we move product through the network. That’s what matters to our customers.”
At KB Seafood Co, sustainable practices underpin every step of our supply chain — from sourcing to packaging.
From Cost Focus to Value Creation
The idea that Australian seafood is always more expensive doesn’t hold up in practice. With the right partner, local seafood can deliver both value and margin.
Formats such as MAP (Modified Atmosphere Packaging) extend shelf life, reduce waste, and eliminate the need for preservatives. For foodservice kitchens or regional retail stores, these efficiencies add up — not just in cost, but also in reliability.
The commercial value of Australian seafood lies not just in where it comes from — but in how well it performs.
“With factories in Perth, Melbourne and Queensland, our network can reach every capital city within 24 hours,” Tim says. “That’s vital when consistency, freshness, and fulfilment matter.”
What to Look for in a Seafood Supplier
Choosing the right seafood partner means going beyond price. The best suppliers support commercial goals, protect brand reputation, and simplify logistics. Key traits include:
- Transparent origin – clear sourcing, fishing methods, and chain of custody
- Sustainability certification – MSC/ASC backed, where applicable
- Product breadth – chilled, frozen, MAP, and value-added formats
- Operational resilience – consistent lead times, inventory, and logistics
- Compliance assurance – GFSI/HACCP accredited, Australian Trusted Trader
A supplier who delivers on these fronts does more than supply seafood — they become a strategic partner in your operation.
The Bigger Picture
Australian seafood is more than a premium offering. It’s a reliable, transparent, and environmentally responsible way to meet growing demand for clean, versatile protein — whether in retail or on the menu.
For businesses looking to build resilience, reduce environmental impact, and offer consumers what they increasingly expect, local seafood is a strong commercial decision — not just an ethical one.
Next Steps
If you're reviewing your seafood supply strategy, explore how KB Seafood Co can support you with:
- Certified Australian seafood across chilled, frozen, and MAP ranges
- National delivery with rapid turnaround
- Private label and branded formats
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FAQs
What are the main benefits of Australian seafood for trade buyers?
Australian seafood offers a combination of quality, consistency, and assurance that import-reliant supply chains often struggle to match. With shorter lead times, local product reduces reliance on international logistics and delays. Traceable sourcing through highly regulated fisheries provides confidence in origin and sustainability. For businesses, this means fewer stock issues, better shelf life, and enhanced alignment with environmental and consumer expectations — particularly with recognised standards like MSC and ASC.
Is Australian seafood always more expensive?
Not necessarily. While some premium species command higher prices, locally sourced seafood often delivers better value over time. Products packaged in efficient formats like MAP or skin packs can significantly reduce shrink, waste, and labour. When you factor in savings from fewer markdowns, better shelf stability, and more accurate forecasting, the overall cost of local seafood can be lower than imported alternatives.
How can I confirm seafood is sustainably sourced?
Start by asking your supplier for certification. Look for logos from the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) for wild-caught products and the Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) for farmed seafood. These certifications are independently audited and follow strict criteria on catch methods, fishery management, and environmental impact. You can also request documentation detailing catch zones, fishing practices, and supply chain protocols.
What formats are available?
We offer seafood in a wide variety of formats to suit different operational needs. Options include fresh chilled cuts, individually quick frozen (IQF) fillets, MAP-packaged trays for extended shelf life, and ready-to-cook value-added products like battered or crumbed portions. These are available across both private label and branded lines, offering flexibility for retail shelves or commercial kitchens.
Do you supply branded and private label products?
Yes. KB Seafood Co supports both established brands and bespoke offerings. Our retail brands include Just Caught, Just Cook, and KB’s, stocked in major supermarkets. For foodservice or retailers looking to develop exclusive lines, we offer tailored private label solutions — including product development, branding, and logistics support.