Portarlington fishmonger celebrated at prestigious awards ceremony in London

Portarlington business owner Alan Mitchell of Al's Fish Shop was celebrated in London this week at the Master Fishmongers Award Ceremony.

Alan, or Al, was awarded the 'Advanced Fishmonger' standard which is a top-tier UK certification that recognises exceptional skill, knowledge, and commitment within the fishmonger trade.

Al's Fish Shop has been operating in Portarlington for over 14 years and now this prestigious accolade has been added to Al's list of accomplishments.

To earn the award, the local businessman had to demonstrate excellence across a rigorous set of competencies, including advanced knife skills, product expertise, responsible sourcing, sustainability practices, and outstanding customer service.

Commenting on his impressive win, Al said: "It is a real honour to achieve this standard and I look forward to continuing to share all my knowledge with my customers. Supporting local businesses, local food producers is something I feel passionate about. This is how we keep our towns alive, create employment and a sense of pride in our locality. Next step for me is Master Fishmonger – watch this plaice!"

READ NEXT: Portarlington student represents Laois at National Soapbox Competition

Al is one of five candidates nominated through Bord Iascaigh Mhara’s (BIM’s) Seafood Academy, a dedicated national forum established in July 2025 to support and elevate independent fishmongers.

The Seafood Academy aims to strengthen business development, enhance commercial sustainability, and ensure long-term financial viability within Ireland’s seafood retail sector.

Speaking at the official awards ceremony at Fishmongers’ Hall in London, BIM’s head of Business Intelligence, Paul Ward said: "This is a landmark day for Ireland’s independent fishmongers, celebrating the expertise and dedication of local fishmongers and reinforcing the importance of high professional standards in delivering quality seafood to consumers.

"These professionals represent the very best of the industry - the skill, the passion, and the dedication required to deliver top-quality seafood to Irish consumers every day."