Wanchese Faces Changes as Cooke USA Shuts Down Fish Operations

News Summary

In Wanchese, North Carolina, Cooke USA has announced the closure of its fish offloading and packaging facility, effective March 29. This decision has significant implications for the local fishing community, which has relied on the Wanchese Fish Company since its founding in 1936. Approximately 10 employees will be affected as the community grapples with the loss of this longstanding operation, while the overall fishing industry continues to face challenges amid changing regulations and economic pressures.

Wanchese Faces Changes as Cooke USA Shuts Down Fish Operations

In the quaint town of Wanchese, North Carolina, a significant change is on the horizon. Cooke USA, the company behind the local fish offloading and packaging operation, has announced its decision to close this facility, with the shutdown officially taking effect on March 29. This news has sent ripples throughout the community, especially among those whose livelihoods are closely tied to the fishing industry.

What’s Happening?

The Wanchese operation has been a subsidiary of Cooke Seafood USA since its acquisition in 2015. Wanchese Fish Company, originally based in Suffolk, Virginia, was founded back in 1936 and has played a pivotal role in the local fishing scene. It specialized in wild-caught fisheries, notably scallops and flounder, and at the time of acquisition, the company boasted 15 fishing vessels equipped with at-sea processing capabilities.

A Glimpse into History

The history of Wanchese Fish Company is a fascinating one. It experienced rapid growth during the 1990s, introducing innovative products like Wanchese Scallop Medallions. To accommodate its expanding operations, the company constructed a sprawling 300,000-square-foot facility in Suffolk. Over the years, Wanchese expanded its horizons even further, establishing operations globally, including a subsidiary in Argentina.

Impacts on Local Employment

The closure of the Wanchese facility is expected to have a significant impact on employment in the area. Reports indicate that about 10 employees will be directly affected by this decision. While it’s reassuring that Cooke USA has committed to providing support and services during this transition for its employees, there’s an unmistakable sense of loss in a small community that has held onto its fishing roots for nearly a century.

Continuity Amid Change

Despite the closure of the primary facility, not all is lost for local operations. The Wanchese Trawl and Supply subsidiary will continue to function at the same location, ensuring that there’s still a presence in the fishing community. Additionally, Shoreland Transport USA, another subsidiary of Cooke, will maintain its routes to the stunning Outer Banks of North Carolina, providing a glimmer of reassurance amid the current tumult.

Wider Concerns in the Fishing Industry

As Wanchese grapples with change, the wider fishing industry in North Carolina is facing its own set of challenges. Local fishermen have raised concerns about the increasing regulations that impact their catch, and many feel the weight of a declining market for fish. Environmental changes and economic pressures have added to the already complex landscape of commercial fishing, reflecting a troubling trend. In fact, the U.S. fishing industry experienced a dip in market size, shrinking from $10.91 billion in 2021 to $9.6 billion in 2022.

A Bittersweet Goodbye

The closure of the Wanchese Fish Company facility marks the end of an 88-year history in the community. For many, this decision is not just a business move; it signifies a shifting tide in the longstanding tradition of fishing that so many have cherished in Wanchese. As the community prepares to navigate these changes, there’s hope that new opportunities may arise amidst the challenges.

A Community Coming Together

As Wanchese takes its next steps, support for affected employees and local fishermen will be vital. This small town has shown resilience time and again, and while there may be uncertainty ahead, the spirit of the community remains strong. It’s a testament to the bonds forged through shared experiences, and there’s no doubt that the local fishing heritage continues to hold a special place in the hearts of those who call Wanchese home.