Innovation and technology is growing rapidly within the fishery and for some, it is critical to survival.
The Newfoundland and Labrador Association of Innovation and Technology, along with the Offshore Fishery Association held a panel discussion on Building an Innovative Fishery for the future, to mark the 27th anniversary of the Cod Moratorium, yesterday in St. John’s.
Alberto Wareham, President and CEO of Icewater Seafoods was one of four panelists. He says for them, technology is everything.
He says everything they do is focused on getting the best quality product to customers, and technology allows them to do that. They compete on the world stage, and without technology they wouldn’t have the markets they have, and meet customers expectations.
Wareham says they’ve learned a lot since the moratorium including how to adapt. He says they have been able to maintain plant operations in Arnold’s Cove, their markets and employment ever since.
Wareham says it was his father who was able to re-configure the business and the plant when they lost their local cod. But, always being able to adapt to the situation while being focused on quality, technology and international markets are key.