Loblaw only retailer named as finalist for Seafood Champion Award

Loblaw is the only retailer in the world to be nominated as a finalist for the 2012 Seafood Champion Award.

The award recognizes individuals and companies around the world for outstanding leadership in promoting environmentally responsible seafood.

According to a press release, Seafood Choices established the award in 2006 to honour the past and/or present contributions of those in the seafood industry who demonstrate a commitment to innovation that leads to change.

Seafood Champion Award winners exemplify outstanding contributions in the context of environmental, social, and economic sustainability, and advance the sustainable seafood movement above and beyond best practice.

Other nominees include marine conservation and seafood organizations, government representatives and chefs from around the world.

"This nomination is a great honour and speaks to the level of commitment Loblaw has in ensuring our oceans remain healthy," said Paul Uys, vice president, sustainable seafood, Loblaw, in the release.

"As Canada's largest purchaser of seafood, we have a responsibility to ensure our seafood products come from sustainable sources."

Loblaw is committed to sourcing all of the seafood sold in its stores from sustainable sources by the end of 2013.

As part of this goal, Loblaw collaborates with WWF Canada, Marine Stewardship Council, independent marine science advisors, government agencies and its many seafood vendors.

The winner of the 2012 Seafood Champion Awards will be announced during an awards ceremony to be held on September 7, during the 10th International Seafood Summit in Hong Kong.

From September 13 to 26, 2012, Loblaw is introducing Oceans for Tomorrow, an in-store event aimed at educating and engaging customers about the importance of choosing sustainable seafood and Loblaw's commitment to keeping oceans healthy in select Loblaw banner stores across Canada.