Herring Market

Herring Market Outlook (2025 to 2035)

The value of the herring market is USD 9.5 billion in 2025. The industry will grow at a CAGR of 2% and reach USD 11.6 billion by 2035, as per Fact. MR's analysis. Growth is incremental but consistent due to increased consumption of healthy fish substitutes, increased demand for value-added seafood, and increased consumer interest in sustainable marine source material.

Omega-3-rich herring is gaining popularity as consumers seek cheap but healthy protein sources. Its use in traditional foods in Northern and Eastern Europe remains high, and emerging markets in Asia and North America are demonstrating a growing demand for canned and frozen options. Such inter-regional demand is supported by both cultural food habits and prevailing health trends aimed at cardiovascular and brain health through sea-based nutrition.

Processed forms such as canned, salted, and pickled dominate world sales due to their shelf life and transportability. Furthermore, increased demand for ready-to-eat and convenient foods among urban consumers continues to maintain its place in meal kits, gourmet packaging, and upscale deli products. This trend is being capitalized upon by manufacturers who have introduced value-added forms with regional flavorings and functional characteristics.

Sustainable fishing and environmental concerns are affecting purchasing behaviors, particularly in developed economies. The consumers and the government are pushing for certified sustainable sources. Companies that transparently report how they buy and invest in traceable supply chains will be likely to outperform in the next decade.

Supply-side factors like quotas, climatic effects on spawning areas, and variability in raw fish supply are driving pricing and distribution. Herring market participants are reacting through investments in cold storage facilities, geographic diversification, and portfolio diversification into processed and flavor products to provide year-round supply and margin protection.

Key Metrics

Metrics	Values
Estimated Size in 2025	USD 9.5 billion
Projected Size in 2035	USD 11.6 billion
CAGR (2025 to 2035)	2%

Fact.MR Survey Results for Industry Dynamics Based on Stakeholder Perspectives

77% want sustainable sourcing via certified fisheries, and 71% want the advanced preservation of fish products for improved shelf life. More salient, perhaps, is the branding component, with 66% calling for a reframed it as a premium, nutrient-rich protein. Across the globe, regional trends focus on differences-from packaging on North American shores to flavor innovation in Europe.

This technology is being increasingly adopted, especially in Europe, where 59% have already invested in flash-freezing to retain quality. Players in North America prefer automation for convenient products, while in Asia-Pacific, companies are considering using AI tools to optimize inventory. However, as far as their impressions of the return on investment are concerned, perceptions differ; European firms are more inclined to think sustainability tech will benefit them than their North American counterparts.

Supply chain issues continue, driven by limits on quotas and the effect of climate on fish populations. Europe faces problems of seasonal supply constraints, Asia-Pacific faces cold chain fragmentation, and North America faces a challenge of demand concentrated within niche communities. These stresses underscore the need for infrastructure investing and diversifying sourcing strategies.

Meat & seafood examine the future, 73% of companies expect to diversify products - add marinated, spiced, omega-rich SKU. In North America, the focus is on high-convenience formats, Europe leans on branded youth appeal, and Asia-Pacific is even improving storage infrastructure. As global populations seek health-interested foodstuffs, the success will hinge on the mixing of sustainability and innovation ensuring the fish can take on a vibrant and modern image.

Shifts in the Market from 2020 to 2024 and Future Trends 2025 to 2035

Between 2020 and 2024, the international herring market recorded fairly stable expansion fueled by continuous demand in the classical industries of Northern and Eastern Europe, which traditionally consume it as a food staple. The years were characterized by rising interest in the industry as a nutrient-rich food product, in part fueled by its high omega-3 content and comparatively low price per unit compared to other fish.

Besides, pandemic-spared consumers gravitated towards fish as perceived good for immunity and heart health. Still, there was a difficulty faced by the industry in facing wavering catches from fisheries, stringently increasing sustainability standards, and global process and trade interference brought about by tensions between geographies and log-gistix constraints caused by pandemics.

Future from the years 2025 to 2035 onwards, the herring market will change further with increased focus on sustainable seafood collection and certification sourcing. Governments and global organizations are estimated to put in place stricter quotas and controls to maintain fish stocks.

Diversification into products like ready-to-eat snacks, fermented types, and value-added herring-based foods will pick up momentum. Furthermore, as Asian industries acquire a liking for preserved and value-added fishery products, global demand is set to become diversified geographically. Technology innovations in freezing and processing will ensure longer shelf life and global distribution, while traceability systems will increase consumer confidence in quality and origin of the products.

Comparative Market Shift Analysis 2020 to 2024 vs. 2025 to 2035

2020 to 2024	2025 to 2035
Driven by affordability and nutritional benefits like omega-3 content.	Greater focus on sustainable sourcing, traceability, and functional benefits in product development.
Dominant in Northern and Eastern Europe with limited expansion into Asia-Pacific.	Increasing penetration into Asian industries and broader global consumer base through value-added products.
Initial regulatory steps toward catch limits and sustainable practices.	Widespread adoption of eco-certification and traceable fishing operations.
Mostly traditional formats: pickled, salted, or smoked.	Rise in innovative offerings: snacks, canned, fermented, and enriched products.
Conventional methods, with limited innovation in preservation.	Advances in freezing, packaging, and preservation technologies for global export and longer shelf life.
Fragmented regulations and variable enforcement of fishing limits.	Stronger international cooperation on sustainable quotas and traceability standards.

Segment-wise Analysis

By Species

By 2025, the Atlantic herring will make up about 55% of the total industry space, while the Pacific herring will capture about 30% of it. The dominance of Atlantic species is possibly due to the much wider availability of this species in the North Atlantic Ocean, as well as its frequent use in traditional dishes in Europe and North America.

Atlantic species (Clupea harengus) has a major place in the European industry itself, especially in Norway, the Netherlands, Germany, and Sweden. These countries have a richer taste and ancestry concerning products in pickled, smoked, and salted forms.

This species of Atlantic species possesses quite high-fat content and larger size and is considered ideal for value-added methods of processing and preservation. These factors led King's Oscar and Abba Seafood AB to take advantage of the intense flavor and preservation of Atlantic species, producing a wide range of ready-to-eat and packaged seafood in Europe and North America.

Pacific species (Clupea pallasii) constitutes 30% of the industry and refers to its presence on the shores of the North Pacific, especially in Russia, Japan, and western parts of North America. Though much smaller, Pacific species finds its place, especially in the Asian industry, for its contribution to fermented dishes and grilled herring. Maruha Nichiro (Japan) and Ocean Beauty Seafoods (USA) focus on this species for their frozen and canned seafood sold according to regional consumption patterns.

Pacific Seafood Group, Luen Thai Fishing Ventures and a few other companies, however, convert a lower volume of other regional fish, such as Araucanian species (off the coast of Chile) and industry those for fishmeal, pet food, or low-priced canned, especially in Latin American and African countries where prices are a significant driving force.

By Type

The herring market by type continues to be characterized by a relatively strong demand for preserved and fresh types by the year 2025 due to cultural preferences, convenience, and evolving consumer tastes. Marinated, pickled, or cured leads with a 25% industry share, followed closely by fresh fish at 22%. These two types, therefore, account for almost half the consumption around the globe, denoting their importance in both traditional and contemporaneously concerning food systems.

Marinated/pickled/cured herring is important in Northern and Eastern European countries, where it represents a staple in traditional cuisines. In Sweden, Abba Seafood AB produces various lines of marinated in sauces such as mustard, dill, and garlic, directed toward local industries and export.

Likewise, in the Netherlands, Ouwehand Visverwerking B.V. provides pickled fish for celebratory and culturally marked days such as Vlaggetjesdag. In Germany, Rügen Fisch AG represents one of the largest suppliers of cured products in the domestic retail and food service sector. These companies focus on consumer-ready formats to promote convenience, shelf stability, flavor, and nutritional integrity.

Areas where fresh herring represents 22% of consumption are coastal areas nearest to fisheries industries. In Japan, fresh Pacific species (nishin) is grilled or dried traditionally, and fresh and lightly processed seafood are prominent in their export and local industries by Nippon Suisan Kaisha, Ltd.

Fresh Atlantic species is supplied by Clearwater Seafoods and North Atlantic Fish Co. in Canada and the USA for local industries and bait fisheries. In the UK, Whitby Seafoods and Young's Seafood supply supermarket chains and independent fishmongers with fresh or chilled filets to appeal to consumers motivated by the demand for omega-3-rich unprocessed alternatives.

Country-wise Analysis

Countries	CAGR (2025 to 2035)
USA	4.2%
UK	3.9%
France	3.6%
Germany	4.1%
Italy	3.4%
South Korea	4.4%
Japan	3.8%
China	4.8%
Australia-NZ	4%

The USA

The USA herring market will increase at 4.2% CAGR during the research period. Although never a significant consume, the industry is experiencing a gradual rise in demand because of increased interest in omega-3-laden seafood and the popularity of ethnic and artisanal food industries. As consumers look for sustainable and nutrient-dense protein sources, herring is gaining traction as a fresh and processed product in specialty industries.

Restaurant and retail specialty seafood growth and a health-focused trend toward anti-inflammatory diets support incremental industry penetration. Industries along the coast, particularly in the Northeast and Pacific Northwest, show higher consumption. Foodservice operators and gourmet brands are also introducing new product forms, such as pickled, smoked, and marinated, to the industry to capture health-conscious and adventurous consumers. Sustained growth of cold chain logistics and seafood traceability will remain behind demand in the forecast period.

UK

The UK herring market is forecast to record a 3.9% CAGR during the study period. The fish has cultural and gastronomic significance in British cuisine, especially along the coast. Modern-day consumption is niche and focused within older demographics and ethnic communities that have traditional diet preferences. However, the new demand for heritage foods and sustainability is offering fresh scope for industry renewal.

Artisanal processors and local fisheries are introducing responsibly caught and flavored products to industry, which are gaining shelf space in upscale grocery and farm-to-table restaurants. The movement toward health-conscious eating is driving growing awareness of herring's heart-healthy oils and lean protein. With the ongoing support of local fisheries and responsible use of marine resources, the UK marketplace is set for firm, modest growth in domestic and export-led demand.

France

The French herring market is predicted to grow at 3.6% CAGR during the study period. Traditionally consumed in northern coastal areas, it has played a modest but persistent part in French cuisine. The industry is growing slowly but positively, with increasing numbers of consumers looking for traditional preservation methods such as smoking, pickling, and bringing.

With increasing focus on sustainable seafood, the low trophic rank and its environmental appropriateness are contributing to renewed popularity. Health consciousness among French consumers also finds an echo in the nutritional advantage. Specialty stores and gourmet restaurants lead consumption as they gain strength toward regional and handcrafted seafood offerings. Packaging innovation, long-life packaging, and increased meal promotions can persuade segment users to expand their distribution.

Germany

The German herring market is expected to expand at 4.1% CAGR during the study period. As a leading consumer in Europe, Germany has a robust, well-established industry driven by local demand alongside strong processing capacity. Pickled and marinated options are widespread, highly consumed in northern regions of the country and are an important part of German traditional cuisine.

There is robust demand for convenience seafood, and is made available in ready-to-eat package configurations suitable for food service and retail industries. Consumer demand for sustainable seafood and transparency in the supply chain is promoting the utilization of certifications and country-of-origin labels by processors.

Additionally, nutrition trends toward high-protein and omega-3-enriched foods are driving consistent levels of usage. Having a well-developed seafood import and distribution system, Germany will remain a principal industry for through 2035.

Italy

The Italian herring market will grow at 3.4% CAGR during the period of study. Italy consumes herring at a relatively lower per capita rate than the other countries of Europe, as the national diet has historically accorded other seafood foods more prominence. Consumer appetite for Nordic and Eastern European foods is gradually influencing eating habits and creating limited but growing space for products.

Imports tend to be focused in the north, where there is greater demand for marinated and pickled. Although growth is not explosive, health trends and culinary discovery are supporting increasing visibility among Italian consumers. The addition to gourmet and fusion foods in restaurants, as well as growing shelf presence in specialty supermarkets, points to gradual industry expansion over the coming decade.

South Korea

The South Korean herring market will grow at 4.4% CAGR during the period of study. Seafood-based diet culture and increasing health consciousness are driving demand for nutrient-rich fish species. South Korea's strong seafood processing and distribution networks support the incorporation in frozen, canned, and preserved formats into food service and retail channels.

Herring consumption is inextricably linked with cultural food and seasonal use, but newer product forms are expanding its popularity among younger consumer segments. Health-conscious consumers are increasingly aware of herring's health attributes, including cardiovascular function support and anti-inflammatory potential. Although the country continues to pursue alternative fish species to ensure rational use of sea resources, it will also increasingly be at the forefront of domestic and export-oriented processing industries.

Japan

The herring market in Japan will increase by 3.8% CAGR during the forecast period. While not included in the average Japanese diet, herring does have a traditional place in some regional diets and ceremonial foods. The industry is gradually evolving with health-conscious shoppers and gourmets searching for omega-3-rich, flavorful seafood.

Japan's advanced seafood processing sector and indigenous cultural preference for fish-based food items are supporting the introduction of modern products like sashimi-style fillets, hot smoked herring, and fermented specialties. Its population aging trend and interest in heart-healthy diets warrant inclusion as part of functional diets. Moreover, increasing focus on Scandinavian and Northern European foods is compelling premium retail outlets and high-end restaurants towards product innovation.

China

China is expected to register a 4.8% CAGR during the period of study. Urbanization, an expanding middle class, and increasing awareness of the advantages of healthy diets are fueling demand for nutrient-dense seafood options. While not historically central to Chinese diets, herring is increasingly popular as an imported product valued for its affordability and omega-3 content.

Chinese processors are exploring value-added forms like frozen fillets, canned forms, and spiced products that suit local tastes. Greater access to global food markets and improving cold chain logistics are supporting supply chain efficiency and product availability.

Increased e-commerce avenues are also aiding the industry with direct access to imported seafood products, such as herring-derived health foods and premium products. Continued dietary awareness and cookery innovation will be anticipated to support robust growth in the herring market.

Australia-New Zealand

The Australia-New Zealand herring market will develop at 4% CAGR during the study period. Demand for sustainable and health-conscious seafood is increasing in popularity, thus incrementally boosting the herring market, especially as awareness grows around its nutritional value. Even though local consumption is moderate, demand in niche and gourmet food industries is on the rise.

Australia and New Zealand's focus on high-quality, clean-label foods has spurred the utilization in value-added forms such as preserved and smoked seafood offerings. Sea-coast towns with fishing culture are leading the way in developing industries for herring products within their respective territories.

A new variety of imports is also being introduced to meet shifting consumer trends. The use of herring by the food service sector in fusion and artisanal menus may raise awareness and moderate growth further over the forecast period.

Competitive Outlook

The herring market is comparatively consolidated, wherein the important players are Acme Smoked Fish Holding Corp., Ocean Beauty Seafoods, Santa Bremor, and Vita Food Products, driving growth through product diversification, cold chain optimization, and regional branding strategies.

Thus, after 2024, Acme Smoked Fish will expand its smoked and pickled herring lines in the USA and Europe based on the demand for premium and ethnic seafood versions. The private-labeled partnerships provide value to Ocean Beauty Seafoods in establishing sustainable sourcing with a strong North American retail base.

Santa Bremor, the leading Eastern European company, benefits from a vertically integrated approach to marinated and canned herring lines through ready-to-eat innovations. Distribution efficiency and shelf-stable product formats give Vita Food Products a leg up in the convenience-driven seafood segment. Lowell International Foods and Feature Foods International are extending ethnic as well as gourmet offerings to specialty retail and wholesale channels, especially in North America.

However, some mid-sized companies like Ma Baensch and Bay View Packing Company maintain strong regional loyalty through traditional brining recipes. In contrast, others, such as Schwartz Food Distribution and Noon Hour Food Products, facilitate growth in ethnic industry niches and institutional food service in North America.

Market Share Analysis by Company

Company Name	Market Share (%)
Acme Smoked Fish Corp.	14-17%
Ocean Beauty Seafoods	11-14%
Santa Bremor	10-13%
Vita Food Products	8-10%
Lowell International Foods	6-8%
Other Players	40-51%

Key Company Offerings and Activities

Company Name	Offerings & Activities
Acme Smoked Fish Corp.	Smoked, pickled, and marinated; expanded private label exports in 2024 to 2025.
Ocean Beauty Seafoods	Frozen and fresh; sustainability-focused sourcing and regional processing hubs.
Santa Bremor	Vertically integrated operations; marinated and canned for Eastern Europe and Asia.
Vita Food Products	Shelf-stable snacks; expanded reach via grocery retail chains in North America.
Lowell International Foods	Ethnic-style pickled; focus on Central and Eastern European consumers in the USA

Key Company Insights

Acme Smoked Fish Corp. (14-17%)

Leads with premium smoked and brined herring lines and significant investment in cold chain logistics and private label packaging.

Ocean Beauty Seafoods (11-14%)

Strengthens position with sustainable certifications and multi-regional processing facilities for fresh and frozen products.

Santa Bremor (10-13%)

Dominates Eastern Europe with ready-to-eat marinated and strong regional branding strategies.

Vita Food Products (8-10%)

Focuses on value-added and shelf-stable offerings, appealing to convenience-driven and traditional consumer segments.

Lowell International Foods (6-8%)

Grows through ethnic industry positioning and strong wholesale relationships across North American Polish and Jewish communities.

Key Market Players

• Acme Smoked Fish Holding Corp.
• Ocean Beauty Seafoods
• Santa Bremor
• Vita Food Products
• Lowell International Foods
• Feature Foods International Inc.
• Bay View Packing Company
• Ma Baensch
• Noon Hour Food Products
• Schwartz Food Distribution

Segmentation

By Species:

• Atlantic Herring
• Pacific Herring
• Araucanian Herring
• Others

By Type:

• Smoked
• Fresh
• Frozen
• Marinated/Pickled/Cured
• Canned

By End Use:

• Household
• Commercial

By Cut Type:

• Whole
• Fillets
• Roll Mops
• Others

By Application:

• Food
• Bait
• Feed

By Region:

• North America
• Latin America
• Eastern Europe
• Western Europe
• East Asia
• South Asia & Pacific
• Middle East & Africa