Rancho Dominguez, CA – Roger O’Brien, President and CEO of Santa Monica Seafood, announced at its annual Supplier Summit today that the Company will be opening a new, state-of-the-art facility in Illinois to primarily expand its Ethos Seafood division’s pre-packed chilled seafood operations.  Production at this new plant is targeted to commence early in the second quarter of this year and will extend Santa Monica Seafood’s capabilities to include supply to over 60% of the U.S.

Roger O’Brien said, “Our focus at this facility will be on high-quality, certified pre-packaged raw and value-added chilled seafood products for sale primarily to retailers.  We are in the process of installing state-of-the-art equipment, similar to what we have at our main Rancho Dominguez, California facility, as well as implementing all of our food safety standards, safety programs and operational systems and processes.”

O’Brien noted that approximately 80% of all chilled seafood in the U.K. retail market is sold in a pre-pack format and this packaging and presentation format is quickly catching on in the U.S.  Convenience, ideal portion sizes, easy handling and displaying, clear labeling and presentation of the product, less waste, longer shelf-life, how to cook and recipe ideas have all contributed to the growth in this dynamic retail category.  This new facility will offer a range of species including seasonal items and regionally popular items.