FASFA announce today the retirement of John Rutherford and appointment of Malcolm Large as Executive Director.

Having joined Seafish in 1985, Large is well known to UK seafood importers and has been the Head of International Trade and Regions at Seafish since 2013. Malcolm was instrumental in setting up the Fish & Chip Shop of the Year competition and managed the competition until 2001.

Large said he is: "…delighted to be joining FASFA and I look forward to continuing the good work that the association has been doing under the stewardship of John Rutherford…” He went on to say he is

"…passionate about the fish and chip industry and ensuring that friers around the country continue to serve their customers quality fish that is sourced from well managed sustainable stocks.”

The directors of FASFA, welcoming the appointment of Large, said: "FASFA has benefitted vastly over the last period with John Rutherford at the helm. He has driven the association forward adding presence and credibility. The appointment of Malcolm Large with his industry knowledge and experience should allow a seamless transition and a bright future. Malcolm is committed to the ongoing promotion of FAS fillets into the iconic UK Fish and Chip shop market. We look forward to working with him as we feel he is a great catch for the FASFA members.

The directors would like to add their sincere thanks to John for all of his efforts and wish him a happy and healthy retirement.”

Rutherford says he is delighted to be able to hand over to such an able successor as Large who shares the common vision for the long-term supply of sustainable, high quality fish fillets in particular to the UK fish and chip shop market, recognising the important role of portion control of a natural wild resource, fish being an essential part of a healthy diet.

Malcolm Large joins FASFA effective from 1 February 2019 and can be contacted on 07375 561963 and by email mallarge@btinternet.com