Industry Interview Includes Bon Secour Fisheries

The Washington Times recently reported on the coronavirus pandemic’s effects on the seafood market, citing rapidly rising debt and inventory. “We got a quick dose of reality when we learned almost 90% of our business is tied to restaurants; no other protein is like that,” said Chris Nelson of Bon Secour Fisheries. “There wasn’t a lot of take-out of what we sell.” The company reported approximately two-thirds of the business in the first half of 2020 compared to the same time in 2019. While it had to lay off around 60% of his staff in April, it has rehired most through the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Paycheck Protection Program. Speaking of its expiration, Nelson added, “Of course we’d like another bite at the apple, but my primary concern is my customer base.”