Fishmonger nets top prize

A Southsider has netted a top prize as the BIM Young Fishmonger of the year.

Scott Smullen, of Dunnes Stores Cornelscourt, is the winner of the 2018 competition in the Supermarket Seafood Counter category.

The announcement was made at the Bord Iascaigh Mhara (BIM) Seafood Retail Awards hosted by food writer and entrepreneur Domini Kemp in Wineport Lodge, Glasson in Athlone.

Scott was praised for his excellent customer insight and in-depth knowledge of the seafood industry.

 Scott, who works in the recently revamped Dunnes Stores, Cornelscourt, began his career working on commercial fishing boats.

Thanks to his fishing background, Scott has an extensive knowledge of seafood and a real passion for the industry which drives a loyal customer base in store. 

Speaking at the awards ceremony, Scott said: “My professional life has been dedicated to the seafood business so winning this award has been a fantastic pay off for all the hard work put in.

“My passion for the seafood industry makes work a joy for me and I hope to expand my skills in all areas of the business going forward.”

Celebrating with Scott was fellow fishmonger Anne Stephens, who picked up the award in the Independent Seafood Specialist category. Anne is the first ever woman to win the competition.

The judging for the annual BIM Young Fishmonger competition is extensive and included mystery shopper visits and a practical skills test with all finalists under pressure to fillet and prepare a range of seafood to a high standard under time constraints.

Both Anne and Scott impressed the judges with exceptional customer service, seafood knowledge and precision knife skills. 

In addition to the sought-after title of ‘BIM Young Fishmonger 2018’, Anne and Scott will further improve their knowledge of seafood with a trip to Cornwall in England.

There they will undertake a two-day cookery course at award-winning chef Rick Stein’s cookery school.

BIM will also provide tailored business mentoring training to both winners. 

Speaking at the awards event, Jim O’Toole, BIM’s Chief Executive said: “Now in its fifth year, the BIM Young Fishmonger competition has recognised and rewarded talented individuals across the independent and supermarket retail sector.

“In doing so, this has promoted an exciting and dynamic sector that is capable of significant growth.

“We are delighted at the extremely high standards in this year’s competition and it is great to see our first female winner.”