Alicante’s fish market rebuilds its footprint and expands its scope
Alicante’s fishing market has reopened after the concession holder gave up control nearly two years ago. The revival came through a new company that effectively inherited the old one, with partners Francisco José Mira and Pablo Díaz already involved in the project. The relaunch began on a positive note, and in the first week the market saw 16 ships unloading 55,000 kilograms of fish using the facilities. The aim now is to grow the fleet and offer additional services, such as rest areas for seafarers, a small supermarket, and ATMs. (Cited: Local market observers)
The venue formerly known as Llotja d’Alacant faced the economic strain of the COVID-19 pandemic, a major factor behind its decision to relinquish the franchise and restructure as a company. A fresh management entity, Lonja Pesquera de Alicante, assumed direct control of the facilities last September without a public tender, the previous process having been rendered invalid due to a lack of participating bidders. (Cited: municipal records)
Alicantino wholesalers and fishermen unite to form a large port market
Against this backdrop, the market reopened with notable activity during its first week. Pablo Díaz, one of the managers, reported that the facilities serve the four fishing vessels based in Alicante and also accommodate vessels from nearby Murcia and Almería that fish in these waters. Their proximity encouraged captains to dock and unload here. Since the resumption, a total of 55,489 kilograms of fish, mostly sardines and anchovies, have landed. Activity during the latest week was somewhat calmer due to rough seas. (Cited: port performance reports)
Díaz stressed that several measures were adopted to secure the project’s viability. The initial adjustments included shrinking the facilities slightly, with only about 1,440 of the roughly 2,800 square meters of the market building currently in use, a move that helped reduce operating costs. Plans exist to expand the usable area over time as the company aims to serve more ships and eventually attract a vessel to designate Alicante as its home port. (Cited: project brief)
Further improvements are in the pipeline. A rest and recreation area for sailors is planned, along with a small supermarket offering essential products and an ATM. There are also intentions to open the auctions to educational institutions and to organize guided tours for visitors. (Cited: development roadmap)