New Grimsby fish dock CEO unveils fresh brand for port-focused group of companies

Andrew Oliver, new CEO of what is now Grimsby Fish Dock Group, with the new branding. Picture: Jon Corken Photography

A new era has begun with a new figurehead and new brand for a group of Grimsby companies at the heart of two of the town’s defining industries. 

Andrew Oliver is now chief executive of Grimsby Fish Dock Group, a subtle switch from the name Grimsby Fish Dock Enterprises, and one aimed at unifying the business units it sits behind.

The four distinct operational strands - Grimsby Fish Market, Port of Grimsby East, Grimsby Shipyard Services and Offshore Training Centre Grimsby - are all being refreshed, with a new brand identity and group website delivered by pan-Humber creative communications consultancy, Fred Marketing.

The work has been driven by Mr Oliver, who served as chair of the organisation for four years, as it looks to unlock growth in the port-facing elements of the business.

While Grimsby Fish Market, with its daily fish auction, remains the iconic centrepiece and home of the head office operations, maritime activity and allied training have become significant revenue streams, with property and vessel maintenance provision also at the core.  

Mr Oliver, a highly respected maritime lawyer, said: “It is my absolute honour to become chief executive of Grimsby Fish Dock Group, an exciting family of allied companies united by the economy our geography has blessed us with, and our forebears have capitalised on.

“Grimsby remains a leading force in seafood, the UK capital for value-added processing and a gateway to retail and hospitality markets, while proudly regaining a world-leading title in offshore wind operations and maintenance. We’re two decades on from Port of Grimsby East first facilitating this burgeoning industry, and as a group we’re playing our role in the long-term renaissance it has triggered.

“I look forward to exploring the growth potential we have here.” 

A team of more than 40 make up GFDG, with a strong sub-contracting base supplying services into the four elements. 

Making the most of the realistic training environment in-dock and the vessel lifting facilities at the heart of the wind turbine crew transfer hub are early priorities, with investment in fish market facilities to strengthen supply relationships also being realised. Marketing of the varied property portfolio is also being advanced. 

As reported, Mr Oliver’s move into the lead executive role at GFDG has seen Simon Dwyer step up from vice chair to chair at the organisation. David Flear has become vice chair.

Dave Laister, Fred Marketing’s PR and media director, has worked with what was GFDE for more than 20 years, having previously served as the Grimsby Telegraph’s business editor.

He said: “This has been a project very close to my heart, and it has been a pleasure to be involved in helping deliver a new era for an organisation at the fore of two incredible industries that underpin Grimsby’s place in the world.

“Andrew brings a professional approach to an entrepreneurial business that has evolved with the times, and I feel we’ve captured that spirit at Fred and provided a great team with a platform for growth.”

Visit the new website at www.grimsbyfishdockgroup.co.uk