Safcol Opens New Adelaide Fish Market in $11 Million Investment Supporting South Australia's Seafood Industry
Safcol has officially opened its new purpose-built fish market at 36 West Thebarton Road, Thebarton, marking a significant investment in the future of South Australia's seafood industry and reinforcing the company's long standing commitment to local fishing communities.
Safcol Australia CEO Andrew Mitchell and Safcol Chairman Philip Tan were on site for the auction at the new facility on 3 June. The facility replaces the previous market and provides a modern, efficient, purpose built hub for South Australia's fresh seafood industry.
The $11 million investment includes the purchase of land and construction of the new fish market, featuring upgraded auction facilities, advanced digital systems, new refrigeration infrastructure, forklifts, customer amenities and improved parking.
At the heart of the new facility is a digital auction and traceability system that electronically assigns fish batches to the fishermen who caught them. The technology streamlines operations, improves efficiency during auctions and provides greater transparency and traceability throughout the supply chain.
The market also features three purpose-built auction stands designed to support growing demand and future industry needs.
Andrew Mitchell said the investment was about much more than financial returns.
"This is an investment in the future of South Australia's fishing communities and seafood industry," Mr Mitchell said. "The fish market is an important service that supports local fishermen, seafood wholesalers, retailers and restaurateurs. It helps ensure the freshest possible seafood reaches South Australian consumers."
"Fish sold through our market at 6am can be served on a plate in a South Australian home or restaurant that same evening. Some seafood is transported interstate and can be enjoyed in Sydney the following day."
"By providing this service, we help deliver high quality, fresh Australian seafood to consumers while supporting the livelihoods of local fishermen."
The new fish market continues a legacy that stretches back more than 80 years. Safcol, originally established as the South Australian Fishing Co Op, has evolved into one of Australia's leading food manufacturers while maintaining strong ties to its fishing heritage.
Today, Safcol manufactures around 60 per cent of Australia's wet baby food supply, alongside soups, canned vegetables, seafood products and products for major supermarket and national food brands. The company also produces its own South Australian Gourmet Foods range and Australian canned abalone for export markets.
The fish market opening follows Safcol's recent announcement that it will invest $80 million in a new purpose-built food manufacturing facility at Edinburgh in Adelaide's north. The project represents one of the largest recent investments in South Australia's food manufacturing sector and the next chapter in Safcol's 81 year history.
The reinvigorated fish market builds on the reputation and service of the original Mile End Market while delivering modern facilities that will continue to support South Australian fishermen, seafood suppliers and wholesale customers for decades to come.
