In a landmark decision for UK retail, Waitrose has announced it will cease selling mackerel across its stores by the end of April, marking the first time a major supermarket has taken such a step in response to environmental concerns.
End of Mackerel Sales at Waitrose
Waitrose will no longer offer fresh, chilled, or frozen mackerel to shoppers after April 29, with tinned varieties also being phased out once current stock is depleted. This move comes as the retailer addresses growing unease over unsustainable fishing practices that threaten marine ecosystems.
Driving Forces Behind the Decision
The International Council for Exploration of the Sea (ICES) has issued stark warnings regarding the long-term viability of mackerel stocks in the north-east Atlantic. ICES recommends a substantial 70% reduction in catches this year compared to 2025 levels, highlighting that mackerel is consistently harvested above sustainable thresholds.
Overfishing has significantly depleted mackerel populations, posing risks to the species' future unless nations adhere to stricter catch limits. Although four coastal states agreed to cut catches by 48% in December, Waitrose deemed this insufficient, as it falls short of ICES's advice.
Waitrose's Ethical Stance
Jake Pickering, head of agriculture, aquaculture and fisheries at Waitrose, emphasised the supermarket's commitment to ethical sourcing. "By suspending sourcing of mackerel at Waitrose we are reinforcing our ethical and sustainable business commitments, acting to tackle overfishing and protect the long-term health of our oceans and this crucial fish," he stated.
Pickering added that customers trust Waitrose to source responsibly, and the retailer is closely monitoring the fishery. He expressed hope to reintroduce mackerel once it meets the supermarket's high standards for sustainable sourcing.
Conservationist Approval and Industry Impact
Conservation groups have welcomed Waitrose's decision, urging other supermarkets to follow suit. The move underscores a shift towards more responsible retail practices in the food industry.
Marija Rompani, director of ethics and sustainability at the John Lewis Partnership, highlighted the broader context: "We believe sustainable food production must balance climate action, nature protection and responsible fish sourcing is fundamental to protecting our oceans."
New Sustainable Alternatives
To compensate for the removal of mackerel, Waitrose is launching a range of Marine Stewardship Council (MSC)-certified fish products. These include:
- Hot-smoked herring
- Hot-smoked peppered herring
- Hot-smoked sweet-cured seabass
Additionally, MSC-certified frozen sardines will be introduced from May. Waitrose will maintain relationships with its mackerel suppliers and source new fish products through existing partnerships, ensuring continuity and support for the fishing community.
Looking Ahead
This initiative reflects Waitrose's proactive approach to sustainability, setting a precedent in the UK supermarket sector. As overfishing concerns mount, such actions may prompt wider industry changes, aligning retail practices with conservation goals to safeguard marine biodiversity for future generations.
