A Proven Shift in Shellfish Storage

For one established UK foodservice supplier, maintaining the quality and consistency of live shellfish had become increasingly difficult. Traditional storage methods were leading to avoidable losses and inconsistent supply. The introduction of the Lobster Pod shellfish holding system marked a clear turning point delivering measurable operational and financial gains in a matter of months.

The Challenge: Losses, Waste and Inconsistency

Prior to installation live shellfish including lobster and langoustine were stored in chilled boxes. While widely used this method resulted in persistent issues: mortality rates of up to 10 percent, dehydration-related weight loss of around 5 percent and an unreliable supply that often led to discounting product or letting down the customers. The impact on margins and customer confidence made it clear that a more effective solution was needed.

The Solution: Investing in Control and Quality

A 300kg capacity Lobster Pod was selected following a review of available systems. The objective was straightforward: reduce mortality, extend holding capability, and improve overall product quality. The system was installed with the expectation of delivering both immediate improvements and a clear return on investment.

The Results: Immediate Gains and Measurable ROI

The impact was evident within weeks. Mortality rates dropped from approximately 10 percent to well below 1 percent. Instead of losing weight, shellfish began to gain condition with an average increase in weight of around 5 percent.

These improvements translated directly into commercial performance. Stock levels could be managed with far greater confidence. The system delivered full return on investment in just over eight months.

Additional benefits included improved product consistency, increased customer satisfaction and the ability to hold greater volumes of langoustine without risk. Even during periods of market disruption the business was able to maintain supply and protect margin.

Operational Impact: Reliability and Ease of Use#

Day-to-day operation of the system proved straightforward. Maintenance requires approximately 20 minutes per day with simple testing methods ensuring water quality remains within optimal parameters. The system’s reliability has allowed teams to focus on core operations rather than managing losses.

Ongoing support and servicing further ensure consistent performance, providing additional reassurance for long-term use.

Animal Welfare and Product Quality

By replicating a natural environment with trays in the dark and chilled and filtered water the system significantly reduces stress on shellfish. Animals are no longer stacked or exposed to dehydration resulting in improved welfare and a higher quality end product. This directly supports both sustainability goals and customer expectations.

Commercial Impact: A Shift in Buying and Selling

The most significant outcome has been the change in how shellfish is managed commercially. With reliable stockholding and minimal losses the business can buy with confidence, maintain availability and strengthen customer relationships.

The system has enabled a more consistent supply model, improving service levels while protecting profitability.

A Strategic Investment with Fast Payback

This case demonstrates that the Lobster Pod is not simply a storage solution but a practical investment in efficiency and margin. With payback achieved in under nine months and ongoing operational benefits, it provides a clear route to improving both performance and resilience in shellfish handling.