Clearwater receives Nova Scotia Exporter of the Year Award

HALIFAX, May 18, 2012 /PRNewswire/ - Clearwater was recognized for its outstanding contribution to Nova Scotia's exporting business community at a luncheon at the World Trade and Convention Centre on Thursday. Hosted by Nova Scotia Business Inc (NSBI), the 9^th annual Export Achievement Awards celebrate export leaders from around the province.

Clearwater has recognized the importance of developing customers and channels of distribution in international markets since its inception in 1976 and the business has only grown, with current export sales of over $275 million.  In over 40 countries, Clearwater is recognized for its superior quality, food safety, diversity of species and reliable worldwide delivery of premium wild, eco-certified seafood, including scallops, lobster, clams, coldwater shrimp, crab and groundfish.

Clearwater CEO Ian Smith was delighted to accept the award on behalf of Clearwater's over 1500 employees. "It's not just that 85% of our business is done outside of Canada, it's that we've nurtured strong relationships with our international customers all over the world. The secret of our success is our people. We may be a small company by international standards, but our people are world-class," stated Smith.

Clearwater's international success translates to benefits for Atlantic Canada. The company employs over 1,400 Atlantic Canadians, many of whom reside in small rural communities, and have been with the company for over 20 years.

About Clearwater

Clearwater is one of North America's largest vertically integrated seafood companies and the largest holder of shellfish licenses and quotas in Canada. Since its founding in 1976, Clearwater has invested in science, people and technological innovation as well as resource ownership and management to sustain and grow its seafood resource. This commitment has allowed it to remain a leader in the global seafood market and in sustainable seafood excellence.

SOURCE Clearwater Seafoods Limited Partnership