Merchant dishes up some seafood snacks to celebrate 25 years in business

The Press and Journal Published: 30/07/2008

WHILE many fishmongers struggle to cope in the face of increased financial pressures, one north-east merchant is bucking the trend by celebrating a quarter of a century in business.

Merchant and Reid, based in the Aberdeen indoor market, is celebrating the milestone with a series of tasting sessions.

Owners Ian Merchant and Michael Reid formed the wholesale business 26 years ago.

A year later, they decided to branch out into retail and opened the fishmonger’s at the Market Street site they still occupy.

Yesterday marked the first of a three-day tasting event, where customers are being offered seafood snacks as well as drinks.

Aberdeen Lord Provost Peter Stephen and local Liberal Democrat councillor Neil Fletcher joined Mr Merchant and Mr Reid yesterday.

Mr Merchant said: “We are looking forward to welcoming customers old and new to sample the fish we have to offer. We have seen many changes in the fish trade in the last 25 years but always strive to offer customers quality, variety and value for money.”

Mr Stephen said: “I am delighted to be supporting this 25th birthday. Over the years legislation, supermarkets and higher costs have all contributed to making life more difficult for local fishmongers.

“But quality always wins through and Merchant and Reid can be proud of their record of serving the people of Aberdeen for so long.”

The anniversary tasting sessions will continue today at the shop before coming to a close tomorrow.

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