Top 10 cod brands in the United Kingdom

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Written by Robert Gultig

2 May 2025

Introduction

In the United Kingdom, cod is one of the most popular fish choices for consumers, with a long-standing tradition of being a staple in British cuisine. As a result, there are numerous cod brands that cater to the UK market, offering a variety of products ranging from fresh fillets to frozen fish fingers. In this report, we will explore the top 10 cod brands in the United Kingdom, delving into their financial performance, market share, and industry insights.

1. Birds Eye

Overview

Birds Eye is a well-known brand in the UK, offering a wide range of frozen food products, including cod fish fingers and fillets. The brand has a strong presence in supermarkets and convenience stores across the country, making it a popular choice among consumers.

Financial Performance

Birds Eye is owned by Nomad Foods, a leading frozen food company in Europe. In 2020, Nomad Foods reported a revenue of €2.3 billion, with Birds Eye contributing significantly to its overall sales. The brand has seen steady growth in recent years, thanks to its innovative product offerings and strong marketing campaigns.

Market Share

Birds Eye is a dominant player in the frozen food market in the UK, holding a substantial market share in the cod category. The brand’s reputation for quality and convenience has helped it maintain its position as a top choice for British consumers.

2. Young’s Seafood

Overview

Young’s Seafood is another popular cod brand in the UK, known for its fresh and frozen fish products. The brand offers a wide range of cod options, from traditional fillets to breaded fish cakes, catering to different consumer preferences.

Financial Performance

Young’s Seafood is a subsidiary of Karro Food Group, a leading food company in the UK. In 2020, Karro Food Group reported a revenue of £1.5 billion, with Young’s Seafood contributing significantly to its sales. The brand has a strong presence in supermarkets and fishmongers across the country, driving its growth in the market.

Market Share

Young’s Seafood is a key player in the fresh and frozen fish market in the UK, competing with other brands for market share. The brand’s commitment to sustainability and quality has helped it attract a loyal customer base, further solidifying its position in the industry.

3. Iceland

Overview

Iceland is a popular supermarket chain in the UK, offering a variety of frozen food products, including cod fillets and fish fingers. The brand is known for its affordable pricing and wide product selection, making it a convenient choice for budget-conscious consumers.

Financial Performance

Iceland Foods Ltd, the parent company of Iceland, reported a revenue of £3 billion in 2020, with its frozen food segment contributing significantly to its sales. The brand’s focus on value for money and high-quality products has helped it maintain its position as a top player in the frozen food market.

Market Share

Iceland has a strong presence in the frozen food market in the UK, competing with other brands for market share. The brand’s emphasis on affordability and convenience has resonated with consumers, driving its sales and market penetration.

4. Tesco

Overview

Tesco is a leading supermarket chain in the UK, offering a wide range of fresh and frozen food products, including cod fillets and fish fingers. The brand is known for its high-quality products and competitive pricing, making it a popular choice among British consumers.

Financial Performance

Tesco PLC, the parent company of Tesco, reported a revenue of £57.9 billion in 2020, with its food segment contributing significantly to its sales. The brand’s strong brand reputation and extensive distribution network have helped it maintain its position as a top player in the retail industry.

Market Share

Tesco has a significant market share in the retail industry in the UK, with a strong presence in the fresh and frozen food market. The brand’s focus on quality, affordability, and convenience has helped it attract a loyal customer base, further solidifying its position in the market.

5. Sainsbury’s

Overview

Sainsbury’s is another prominent supermarket chain in the UK, offering a variety of fresh and frozen food products, including cod fillets and fish fingers. The brand is known for its high-quality products and commitment to sustainability, making it a popular choice among environmentally-conscious consumers.

Financial Performance

J Sainsbury plc, the parent company of Sainsbury’s, reported a revenue of £32.4 billion in 2020, with its food segment contributing significantly to its sales. The brand’s focus on ethical sourcing and sustainable practices has helped it attract a loyal customer base, driving its growth in the market.

Market Share

Sainsbury’s has a strong market share in the retail industry in the UK, competing with other supermarket chains for market share. The brand’s reputation for quality and sustainability has helped it maintain its position as a top player in the industry, appealing to a diverse range of consumers.

6. Waitrose

Overview

Waitrose is a premium supermarket chain in the UK, offering a wide range of high-quality fresh and frozen food products, including cod fillets and fish fingers. The brand is known for its luxury products and commitment to sustainability, making it a popular choice among discerning consumers.

Financial Performance

Waitrose & Partners reported a revenue of £6.1 billion in 2020, with its food segment contributing significantly to its sales. The brand’s focus on premium products and sustainable practices has helped it attract a loyal customer base, driving its growth in the market.

Market Share

Waitrose has a niche market share in the retail industry in the UK, catering to a more affluent customer base. The brand’s reputation for quality and sustainability has helped it maintain its position as a top player in the premium segment of the market, appealing to consumers who prioritize ethical sourcing and premium products.

7. Lidl

Overview

Lidl is a discount supermarket chain in the UK, offering a variety of fresh and frozen food products, including cod fillets and fish fingers. The brand is known for its low prices and high-quality products, making it a popular choice among budget-conscious consumers.

Financial Performance

Lidl UK GmbH reported a revenue of £6.9 billion in 2020, with its food segment contributing significantly to its sales. The brand’s focus on value for money and quality has helped it attract a loyal customer base, driving its growth in the market.

Market Share

Lidl has a significant market share in the discount supermarket segment in the UK, competing with other brands for market share. The brand’s emphasis on affordability and quality has resonated with consumers, making it a top choice for budget-conscious shoppers looking for high-quality products at competitive prices.

8. Aldi

Overview

Aldi is another discount supermarket chain in the UK, offering a variety of fresh and frozen food products, including cod fillets and fish fingers. The brand is known for its low prices and high-quality products, making it a popular choice among budget-conscious consumers.

Financial Performance

Aldi Stores Ltd reported a revenue of £12.3 billion in 2020, with its food segment contributing significantly to its sales. The brand’s focus on value for money and quality has helped it attract a loyal customer base, driving its growth in the market.

Market Share

Aldi has a significant market share in the discount supermarket segment in the UK, competing with other brands for market share. The brand’s emphasis on affordability and quality has resonated with consumers, making it a top choice for budget-conscious shoppers looking for high-quality products at competitive prices.

9. Asda

Overview

Asda is a well-known supermarket chain in the UK, offering a variety of fresh and frozen food products, including cod fillets and fish fingers. The brand is known for its low prices and wide product selection, making it a popular choice among budget-conscious consumers.

Financial Performance

Asda Stores Ltd reported a revenue of £22.9 billion in 2020, with its food segment contributing significantly to its sales. The brand’s focus on value for money and quality has helped it maintain its position as a top player in the retail industry.

Market Share

Asda has a significant market share in the retail industry in the UK, competing with other supermarket chains for market share. The brand’s emphasis on affordability and quality has resonated with consumers, driving its sales and market penetration.

10. Morrisons

Overview

Morrisons is a popular supermarket chain in the UK, offering a variety of fresh and frozen food products, including cod fillets and fish fingers. The brand is known for its quality products and affordable pricing, making it a popular choice among British consumers.

Financial Performance

WM Morrison Supermarkets PLC reported a revenue of £17.5 billion in 2020, with its food segment contributing significantly to its sales. The brand’s focus on quality and value for money has helped it maintain its position as a top player in the retail industry.

Market Share

Morrisons has a significant market share in the retail industry in the UK, competing with other supermarket chains for market share. The brand’s reputation for quality and affordability has helped it attract a loyal customer base, further solidifying its position in the market.
In conclusion, the top 10 cod brands in the United Kingdom offer a wide range of products to cater to different consumer preferences. These brands have established a strong presence in the market, with a focus on quality, affordability, and convenience. As the demand for cod continues to grow in the UK, these brands are well-positioned to meet the needs of consumers and drive continued growth in the industry.

Related Analysis: View Previous Industry Report

Author: Robert Gultig in conjunction with ESS Research Team

Robert Gultig is a veteran Managing Director and International Trade Consultant with over 20 years of experience in global trading and market research. Robert leverages his deep industry knowledge and strategic marketing background (BBA) to provide authoritative market insights in conjunction with the ESS Research Team. If you would like to contribute articles or insights, please join our team by emailing support@essfeed.com.
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