In 2023, the production of sandeels and sandlances for human consumption in the UK stood at 8.99 metric tons. From 2024 to 2028, the forecast indicates a steady decline: dropping to 8.7 metric tons in 2024, 8.41 in 2025, 8.13 in 2026, 7.85 in 2027, and 7.58 in 2028. Year-on-year variations show a decline of approximately 3% from 2023 to 2024, and similar reductions in subsequent years. The Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) over this period is around -3.5%.

Future trends to watch for:

Potential impacts of climate change on marine ecosystems affecting sandeel populations.
Changes in fishing regulations and quotas aimed at conservation.
Market demand shifts influenced by changing dietary preferences and sustainability concerns.