As of 2023, the production of whole fresh cockles in capture fisheries for human consumption in the UK was at 9.29 thousand metric tons. From 2024 to 2028, the production is forecasted to rise steadily, reaching 9.93 thousand metric tons by 2028. The year-on-year growth is modest, with average increases of around 1.4% annually over the forecasted period. Over the five-year forecast, the compound annual growth rate (CAGR) is also approximately 1.4%, indicating consistent expansion in cockle production.
Future trends to watch for include:
- Impact of climate change on marine habitats, possibly affecting cockle availability.
- Regulatory changes concerning sustainable fishing practices.
- Trends in consumer preference towards sustainable and locally sourced seafood.
