Alabama Gulf Seafood Summit Addresses the Future of the Industry

More than 100 attendees representing all segments of the seafood chain gathered at the first-ever Alabama Gulf Seafood Summit to explore how best to move the Gulf seafood industry forward for businesses in the state. It was presented in partnership with Alabama Seafood Marketing Commission and the Alabama Department of Agriculture & Industries. From Governor Bentley’s opening remarks to the Summit’s closing commentary from Marine Resources Director and Alabama Seafood Marketing Commission (ASMC) Administrator Chris Blankenship, one common theme emerged: increasing demand for Alabama Gulf Seafood starts with collaboration across all stakeholders in the seafood chain, and the Summit was an excellent start. “It’s one thing to tell folks to ‘work together,’ but to really move the dial in terms of sales volume, we needed the benefit of an open forum discussion,” said Blankenship. “Today, individuals who represent all facets of our industry, from the point of origin to the point of sale, were able to meet and share their concerns and they also had the opportunity to align with new business partners and tap into additional revenue streams.” Members from the entire seafood chain as well as state and local elected officials gathered to support and engaged in important dialogue to discuss the future of the Alabama Gulf Seafood industry. Speakers included the following:

Participants engaged in panel discussions, presentations and networking sessions to address common barriers in the seafood sale and distribution process and examine industry topics. Alabama Gulf Seafood www.eatalabamaseafood.com