In December, the UK Food Valley team joined Mat Thompson, Economy & Funding specialist for Northeast Lincolnshire Council, for an eye-opening visit to Skipper’s Pet Foods in Grimsby. They were welcomed by Managing Director Steve Moore, Marketing & Operations Lead Marius Muraska, and Factory Manager Edvinas Scerbavicius, who offered a tour of the facility and a look into the company’s ambitions for growth, innovation, and sustainability.

A Business Built from Grimsby’s Fishing Heritage

Founded in 2013 by former fish merchant Steve Moore, Skipper’s Pet Foods is deeply rooted in Grimsby’s dominance as one of the most important centres of fish processing in Europe.

MD Steve recognised the potential to transform fish co‑products from the human food chain into high‑quality, natural dog treats, reducing waste while championing sustainable fisheries. Much of the fish Skipper’s uses is human‑grade, and by repurposing fish skins and other co‑products, the business keeps valuable raw materials within the food system while supporting the circular economy.

Sustainable Processes with Nutritional Integrity

Skipper’s specialises in low‑temperature drying, a process developed with support from the University of Lincoln. Unlike traditional cooking, drying removes only moisture—around 75% of the weight of fish skins—while preserving intrinsic proteins and omega oils. The result is a more nutritionally dense product and a treat that is, impressively, five times stronger than cow leather.

The company is currently the only UK producer using this authentic drying technique at scale, setting them apart in a market where most competitors still “dry” by cooking.

Strong Market Performance and Customer Loyalty

Skipper’s has built a loyal customer base, with 75% of customers returning and repeat purchases rising from 3.4 to 4.4 times per year. An overwhelming 97% of sales are UK‑based, supporting the company’s mission to bring manufacturing back to the UK and minimise carbon footprint through local supply chains.

Recent years have seen significant new product development, and the business continues to expand its healthy, natural range.

Collaboration and Innovation Opportunities

University of Lincoln Food Manufacturing experts, including Professor Janet Bellamy and her team, have played a key role in helping Skipper’s understand and optimise their machinery, improve cold store operation, and strengthen process control. The company is exploring further innovation support, including a potential Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) to advance new product development—an area they are eager to scale.  Skipper’s is also considering further automation including the development of bespoke packing machinery for their fish skin sticks, which are currently packed by hand.

Mission-Led Growth

Skipper’s Pet Foods’ mission is clear:

  • To be the first‑choice supplier of UK‑made, natural seafood pet treats.
  • To use only natural ingredients that support pet health and wellbeing.
  • To avoid preservatives, colourings, and artificial additives.
  • To source responsibly from sustainable fisheries and avoid at‑risk areas.
  • To reduce environmental impact by sourcing locally wherever possible.

With over a century of combined experience in seafood, the team prides itself on expert sourcing of UK and exotic species rich in omega oils and protein.

Looking Ahead

With strong market performance, a robust sustainability ethos, and growing collaboration with academic partners, Skipper’s Pet Foods is well‑positioned for its next phase of innovation. The business is eager to expand its healthy product range, strengthen its NPD capability, and continue transforming Grimsby’s proud seafood heritage into high‑quality, pet‑friendly nutrition.