Compass Group has banned 69 species of fish from all its UK and Ireland restaurants following advice from the Marine Conservation Society (MCS).

The world’s largest contract caterer has stopped to serve the endangered species in its 6,500 canteens, restaurants, ‘grab-and-go’ offerings or at hospitality events unless the advice from the MCS changes.

Simon Brockington, MCS head of conservation, congratulated Compass for making the move.

“Compass is leading the catering sector in addressing fisheries sustainability,” he said.

“By removing stocks from our 'fish to avoid' list, Compass is helping to reduce demand for over-exploited fish. This is a crucial step in ensuring the long term survival of vulnerable fisheries.”

The species on Compass’ Fish to Avoid list have been identified by the MCS as the “most vulnerable to over-fishing and/or are fished using methods which cause damage to the environment or non-target species” and include four varieties of skate, five tunas and two types of plaice.

Compass created its Sustainable Seafood Guidelines, including its Fish to Avoid list, in October 2008. Bluefin tuna was included in the original list and in June 2009 swordfish was added, both in accordance with the MCS.

The new list reflects the most up-to-date advice on the MCS website, which also includes a Fish to Eat list.


Compass Group gains Marine Stewardship Council certification >>

Prince Charles warns of future nightmare if overfishing is ignored >>

Celebrities campaign against Nobu’s bluefin tuna >>

Campaigners ask restaurateurs to fight for fish >>


By Janie Stamford

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