Cromer Crab

Why is North Walsham’s new Waitrose supermarket selling Cornish crab instead of crabs from Cromer?

Kathryn Bradley Friday, November 30, 2012
4:46 PM

A newly opened supermarket, that prides itself on selling locally-sourced produce, has got Cornish crab in its chiller cabinet because its can’t find anyone to supply the crustaceans from Cromer.

Waitrose, which has just opened a store in North Walsham, is selling the Cornish-caught shellfish instead of crab caught nine miles away in Cromer.

Branch manager Ashley Broad said: “Waitrose was the first supermarket to stock dressed Cromer Crab in 1992 so we were deeply saddened when the Cromer Crab Company closed earlier this year.

“Unfortunately we have not been able to find another company in the area that can cook and prepare Cromer crab to the technical standards that we require. However we remain extremely keen to offer what is a fantastic product to our customers again in the future and would encourage any interested parties to get in touch with us.”

A disappointed shopper, who has asked not to be named, contacted the North Norfolk News when she first noticed the Cornish crab on sale.

She said: “It just doesn’t ring right to be having Cornish crab when we have got very good crabs right here on the doorstep. Cromer is renowned for its crabs. I was a bit disappointed. I mentioned it to my neighbour when I got home and he also thought it was a bit off.”

Young’s Seafood announced it was launching a consultation in to the future of its Cromer Crab Company in September 2011. By July this year, the company’s work force had gone from 230 to 20, who stayed on to decommission the site and equipment.

11 comments

I give up. Whitter amongst yourselves, Little Englanders.

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Mad Brewer

Sunday, December 2, 2012
A pal phoned me to say that Waitrose are selling Paston Pasties in Penzance.

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Mad Brewer

Sunday, December 2, 2012
2 separate comments blocked.

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Mad Brewer

Sunday, December 2, 2012
perhaps those Cornish crabs were on holiday in these parts? Sort of Crustacean Grockles.

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Mad Brewer

Sunday, December 2, 2012
Oh dear, Waitrose seem to be getting a bit of a reputation,as Greenpeace are now pursuing them because they are partnering with one of the most destructive companies in the world? yes Shell of Arctic destruction fame.

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John L Norton

Saturday, December 1, 2012
can we not give waitrose a chance i could say why is sainsburys so over priced i brought two advent calenders from there at two pounds esch normal price next day they were on offer at two pounds fifty how?

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kaz

Saturday, December 1, 2012
They want to sell Cromer Crabs so all you have to do with the few around at this time of the year is prepare them as they want. So get on with it and you have a good and steady customer. If you don't get there quickly Sheringham is planning to swoop with their superior product.

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sensibletrousers

Saturday, December 1, 2012
I think you'll find Cromer crabs are out of season at hte moment....anyway all the crab pots are piled up in the churchyard

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Steve Alger

Friday, November 30, 2012
So here we go then. Open for 2 days & the "let's knock Waitrose" brigade is already in full swing. If you are so desperate for a Cromer crab then you will find them in the Town at the local fishmonger, at numerous outlets in Cromer or in your nearest lay-by. Alternatively, why not live dangerously for once, and buy some Racllet cheese instead.

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Mylen1um

Friday, November 30, 2012
they are no more "local" for produce than any other supermarket !

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Double Bill

Friday, November 30, 2012
I saw SCOTTISH crab for sale in Cromer's Morrisons...

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Lord Elf

Friday, November 30, 2012

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