Cousins Maine Lobster Debuts Third Truck in Michigan; Celebrates 85 Units Amid 13th Anniversary

Fast-casual lobster roll company Cousins Maine Lobster (CML) recently announced the launch of a new food truck in Grand Rapids, Michigan, making it the 85th food truck on the company’s nationwide roster.

This addition marks the third CML food truck and the second market for operators Hussein (Hank) Kdouh, Muhammed (Moe) Zahr, and Rabih Zahr, who launched their first truck in Detroit in 2022 and a second truck three months later.

The new truck will provide seafood lovers in the Grand Rapids area with...

The Winding Glass: We Will All Pay the Price for Tariff Stupidity, Incompetence, and Hubris- Opinion

Trump has no tariff plan. Most tariffs are negotiated on specific commodities, with painstaking analysis of costs of inputs, subsidies, and trade balances. Anyone who remembers the imposition of shrimp tariffs in 2004 knows that even though the process was driven by the politics of domestic shrimpers, the actual process was detailed and company specific. As a result, those companies demonstrating a lack of subsidy and realistic cost inputs avoided significant tariffs. Within a short time, the shrimp market was healthy again...

Public Comment Opens on Potential Repeal of Controversial Lobster Catch Limits

A rule that would consider repealing a contentious proposal to increase the catch limit size for lobsters in the Gulf of Maine has been approved for public comment by the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (ASMFC)’s American Lobster Management Board.

Draft Addendum XXXII could repeal the gauge and escape vent size limits included in Draft Addendum XXVII. Specifically, the rule protected lobsters in the Gulf of Maine/Georges Bank spawning stock biomass. The proposed protections would have increased the minimum size of gauges fishers use to measure lobsters...

Cousins Maine Lobster Food Truck Travels to West Texas and New Mexico

Food truck and restaurant brand Cousins Maine Lobster (CML) recently announced a road tour visiting El Paso, Las Cruces, Albuquerque, Rio Rancho, and Santa Fe starting on Wednesday, March 5.

The tour is being led by CML franchisees Jimmy Shoshani and Ahmer & Sarah Khan, who are visiting from the Dallas market. During their visits, they will showcase CML’s classic Maine lobster rolls, lobster grilled cheese, chowder, and whoopie pies during the tour.

CML co-founder Sabin Lomac expressed his excitement to showcase the brand at new locations...

Lobster Prices Drive Improved Landings Value for Maine’s Fishing Industry

New data shared by the Maine Department of Marine Resources (DMR) indicated that harvesters in the state earned $74 million more in 2024 than in 2023 with total landings valued at $709,509,984.

“During a year shaped by unprecedented storms and damage to our working waterfronts, Maine’s commercial fishermen, aquaculturists, and seafood dealers once again delivered a major economic benefit to our state,” said Governor Janet Mills. “They did so through hard work and their time-honored commitment to producing and delivering the best seafood in the world...

Former NBA Star Blake Griffin Dunks Into Red Lobster’s Lobsterfest 2025

Red Lobster’s Lobsterfest has returned, and the chain called the 2025 edition the GLOAT: The Greatest Lobsterfest of All Time.

The brand teamed up with former National Basketball Association (NBA) All-Star Blake Griffin, including a new way to enjoy lobster via Blake Griffin’s Way: a lineup that includes Rock Lobster Tail, NEW Garlic Butter-Poached Maine Lobster, and NEW Lobster Mac & Cheese, all on one plate.

The partnership with Griffin tipped off with a campaign showcasing Griffin dunking basketballs and enjoying Red Lobster...

Lobster Size Rule Reversed: Industry Concerns Prompt ASMFC to Repeal Gauge Increase

The Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (ASMFC) repealed a controversial proposal to increase the minimum catch size limits for lobsters in the Gulf of Maine.

The ASMFC said its decision stems from “fervent industry concerns about the potential economic impacts” of the increased minimum gauge size in the Gulf of Maine and possible trade issues with Canada.

The rule was set to go into effect on July 1, 2025.

“Rolling back resiliency measures is not at all what I wanted to have happened. After multiple zone...

Trump Slaps Tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China: Seafood Industry Braces for Impact, Latest Updates

After weeks of nonstop speculation, the White House confirmed that President Donald Trump would be implementing tariffs on various US trading partners, including Canada, Mexico and China.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt told reports on January 31 that Trump will implement 25% tariffs on Canada and Mexico and a 10% duty on China starting on February 1.

NBC News reported that the details of how tariffs will be distributed remained unclear, but the plan will be available for public inspection on February 1. No comments were...

Maine DMR Updates Bulletin on Right Whales and Pauses Two-Endline Gear Enforcement

On January 24, 2025, the Maine Department of Marine Resources (DMR) released an updated bulletin for lobstermen regarding the North Atlantic right whales recently spotted off the western edge of Jeffreys Ledge.

Over the last two weeks, up to 90 individual right whales have been identified in the area around Jeffreys Ledge. According to the DMR’s update, right whales may be feeding within this area at depths of around 300 feet or greater.

On January 17, the DMR issued a bulletin urging fishermen to remove their fishing...

GSMC 2025: Shellfish Panel Highlights the Lobster Meat Era

The lobster market has entered its ‘Lobster Meat Era.’ While the ‘era’ phrase may typically be found on TikTok, Expana’s Managing Editor Janice Schreiber summed up the lobster meat craze well during the Global Seafood Market Conference’s Shellfish Panel on January 21.

Owen Kenney, VP of Sales for Champlain Seafood, noted that until relatively recently, lobster meat was a byproduct as people searched for lobster tails and it was highly seasonal.

About a decade ago, lobster meat saw a massive increase in the usage of non-seasonal applications of lobster meat...

Maine DMR Withdraws Proposed Lobster Size Increase Amid Industry Concerns

The Maine Department of Marine Resources (DMR) has withdrawn a rule that would increase the minimum catch size limits for lobsters.

The decision by DMR Commissioner Patrick Keliher was made on January 9 and garnered praise from the industry. The Portland Press Herald also reported that Keliher said the DMR would consult lobstermen about any future conservation proposals regarding the state’s staple fishery.

The rule, developed by the Atlantic Staes Marine Fisheries Commission, was called Addendum 27 (XXVII). It would increase the minimum size of gauges fishers use to measure...

China Lifts Four-Year Ban on Australian Live Rock Lobster Trade, Boosting Industry

China notified Australia on December 20 that the live rock lobster trade between the two nations can resume after a four-year import ban, per Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. 

In October, Albanese announced that trade between the two nations would resume before the year ended.  

“This is a major win for our hard-hit live rock lobster industry and follows sustained engagement and advocacy by government and industry. We thank the Australian live rock lobster industry for its patience and resilience as we worked to reinstate...

Canada To Issue Exploratory Fishing Licenses for Quebec Lobster Industry in Spring 2025

On December 5, 2024, the Honorable Diane Lebouthillier, Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard, announced the continuation of the data acquisition plan for Quebec’s lobster fishing industry.

Come spring 2025, the Department will issue new exploratory fishing licenses to assess lobster stock capacity and responsible fishery development as well as to support additional catches. License holders will participate in gathering critical data related to the stock assessment, including learning more about lobster abundance and distribution.

“Starting this spring, First Nations and industry will be..."

Red Lobster Launches New Happy Hour

National seafood restaurant Red Lobster recently announced the launch of Happy Hour, featuring $5 drink specials and $2 off select starters.

The special began Monday, December 2, 2024, and will be available each week Monday – Friday from 3 – 6 PM local time at participating restaurants nationwide.

The starter selection includes the following dishes:

• Lobster Flatbread
• Seafood-Stuffed Mushrooms
• Crab Queso
• Lobster Dip
• Mozzarella Cheesesticks

Nichole Robillard, Chief Marketing Officer at Red Lobster, expressed excitement for the recent launch, saying, “It’s the perfect way to take a break from the hustle and bustle..."

Maine Delegation Announces More Than $1.9 Million for Lobster Research in Maine

Today, U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King, and U.S. Representatives Chellie Pingree and Jared Golden, are announcing the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Sea Grant Office’s decision to award seven Maine projects with $1,941,692 in funding for the American Lobster Research Program. The grant program supports projects that address critical knowledge gaps about American lobster and its fishery in a dynamic and changing environment.

“Maine’s lobstermen and women have long demonstrated their commitment to maintaining and protecting a sustainable fishery in the Gulf of..."

Nova Scotia Fishing Group Seeks $10 Million in Damages Over Illegal Lobster Trade

A Nova Scotia commercial lobster fishing group has taken legal action against Independent Fisheries Limited for allegedly buying illegally caught lobsters in St. Mary’s Bay.

The United Fisheries Conservation Alliance (UFCA) filed a Notice of Action with the Supreme Court of Nova Scotia against the firm and its owner, Xiaoming Mao, along with Jason Lamrock, Tyler Nickerson, Sandra Nickerson, Shawna Nickerson, David Nickerson, and Wesley Nickerson, according to a UFCA press release.

The UFCA, which represents lobster fishing organizations throughout the province...

Premium Brands Minimizes Tariff Risk; Clearwater Seafoods Results Hit by Subpar Catches

Canada’s Premium Brands reported a record Q4 revenue of CAD 1.64 billion ($1.14 billion), a 5.4% increase compared to the fourth quarter of 2023. The company also netted record Q4 adjusted EBITDA ($148.7 million). For the fiscal year, the company hit record revenue ($6.47 billion) and adjusted EBITDA ($593.7 million).

“2024 finished on a strong note driven by our Protein and Bakery Groups’ US sales initiatives, which generated approximately $50 million in sales volume growth in the quarter...

NL Delegation to Meet with New Buyers at Seafood Expo North America and Explore Market Opportunities 

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador’s (NL) Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture division recently announced that Minister Honorable Gerry Byrne and a delegation of provincial fishery representatives will meet with key global buyers during the 2025 Seafood Expo North America (SENA).

The annual seafood expo takes place on March 16 – 18 in Boston, Massachusetts, and will allow the NL government to explore global market opportunities with key players in the seafood sector.

This year, NL will be co-exhibiting with the following companies...

US Seafood Targeted in Canada’s Proposed Retaliatory Tariff List

Canada wasted no time hitting back at new U.S. tariffs, with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announcing immediate 25% retaliatory duties on C$30 billion ($20.9 billion) worth of American imports after the levies took effect on March 4.

“Canada is being needlessly and unfairly targeted by these tariffs – and the US' decision leaves us with no choice but to respond to protect Canadian interests, workers and businesses. Working with provincial, territorial and industry partners, our singular focus is to remove these tariffs as quickly as possible...

Cousins Maine Lobster Opens New Location in Springfield-Peoria, IL

On February 11, 2025, Cousins Maine Lobster (CML) announced its expansion into Central Illinois with the grand opening of its first Springfield-Peoria food truck.

The food truck brand, which was made famous as a Shark Tank investment, will be serving up Maine food staples, including wild-caught lobster rolls, New England clam chowder, lobster tacos, lobster grilled cheese, loaded lobster tots, and more.

Yunus and Thameem Shahul—CML franchisees and brothers who opened their first truck in Chicago in February 2024—will operate six trucks in Illinois, including the expansion into Central...

The Retail Rundown: Valentine’s Day Brings Foodservice Gains 

The grocery segment received a boost from last weekend’s pro-football championship game, with strong movement at the meat case. According to Circana data, retail chicken wing sales ahead of the game reached about $8.7 million, up from $8.5 million the previous week. Pork ribs brought in nearly $7 million, rising from $6.7 million, while ground beef sales totaled approximately $76 million, compared to $74.7 million the prior week. 

Looking ahead, February is typically a slower month for retail and overall meat demand. However, Valentine’s... 

New Bedford Mayor Pushes to Repeal ASMFC’s Lobster Catch Size Restrictions

In a letter yesterday to Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (ASMFC) Executive Director Robert Beal, New Bedford Mayor Jon Mitchell advocated for the repeal of Addendum 27 (XXVII) to the ASMFC’s lobster fishery management plan.

According to the addendum—which will increase the minimum catch size for lobsters effective July 2025—US lobstermen will soon be limited in the size of lobsters they can catch, thereby impacting total haul sizes. Meanwhile, Canadian lobstermen will continue harvesting and selling the same sized lobsters in the US market...

UMaine-led Team Develops More Holistic Way to Monitor Lobster Industry

Maine’s lobster fishery — one that supports thousands of jobs statewide — is extensively monitored. Management efforts are informed by biological monitoring surveys observing changes in abundance and distribution of the lobster population, and dealer and harvester reporting from the industry. Yet these statistics don’t tell the whole story of an industry shaken by supply and market disruptions and geopolitical conflict, or the welfare of the people and communities that rely on it. 

Since the annual commercial lobster landings have declined 27% from 2016-2022, the Maine Lobstermen’s Association...

New Hampshire Rejects Federal Lobster Catch Restrictions, Aligning with Maine's Stance

New Hampshire Governor Kelly Ayotte sent a letter to the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (ASMFC) stating that the state would not comply with the new guidelines focused on increasing the minimum size of lobsters caught in the Gulf of Maine.

The move mirrors a decision made by the State of Maine earlier this month, as Expana reported.

“New Hampshire’s commercial fishing industry is a proud part of our heritage, and I have heard loud and clear from our lobstermen...

Maine Lobstermen Urged to Relocate Gear After Right Whale Sightings

The Maine Department of Marine Resources (DMR) released a bulletin urging commercial lobstermen to move their gear from Jeffreys Ledge after 75 endangered North Atlantic right whales were spotted last week just off the western edge of the area, per a January 17 bulletin.

“I am strongly urging any lobster fisherman with gear in the vicinity of the right whales on Jeffreys Ledge to move their gear to another area until surveys indicate that the whales have moved on,” DMR Commissioner Patrick Keliher said...

Maine Cooperative Lobster 207 Wins $5 Million Settlement in CEO Misconduct Case 

Lobster 207, a co-op formed by the Maine Lobstering Union (MLU), landed a $5 million settlement in its favor after five years in court against a former CEO, Warren Pettegrow, his parents, and other parties.

Lobster 207 alleged that the defendants engaged in a “course of misconduct that resulted in serious economic injuries to Lobster 207 " through schemes, rackets, and misrepresentations. The Portland Press Herald reported that the family continues to deny the charges.

The lawsuit, filed in 2019, alleges that the Pettegrows defrauded...

ANALYSIS: Canadian Lobster Prices Stabilize Amid Export Slowdown

Canadian live lobster prices have been stabilizing this autumn, following a gradual increase since June. Latest data from Expana shows a market price for live chix exported to Europe standing at 12.18 USD/lb (C+F incoterm) on 5/12/24, which represents a 60% rise since the year-low value of 7.6 USD/lb at the beginning of June...

The Winding Glass: Heavy Lobster and Crab Tariffs Could Cripple the US; Canadian Seafood Industry

Canadian lobster and crab industries face severe stress due to President-elect Trump’s threat to impose 25% tariffs across the board on all Canadian imports to the US.

Under the worst-case scenario, higher sale prices would cut demand to the extent that lobster and crab would be left in the water. For both exports, the Canadians have no replacement for the US market. To increase sales to China, Japan, and Europe, they would have to offer drastic price cuts...

Key Nova Scotia Lobster Fishing Areas to Open Tuesday After Delayed Start

Dumping Day for lobster fishing areas (LFA) 33 and 34 will begin on November 26. The staple Nova Scotia fishery was delayed due to heavy winds.

The start of commercial fishing for LFA 34, the larger of the two areas, will begin at 5 a.m. on Tuesday, while LFA 33 will begin at 7 a.m., per local media reports. Lobster Fishing Area 33 stretches from Cow Bay in Halifax Regional Municipality to Shelburne County; Lobster Fishing Area 34 covers Shelburne County to Digby County...

Premium Brands Sees Record Q3 Revenue Despite Challenges; Lobster Sales Up, Volume Dips

Major Canadian food company Premium Brands Holdings unveiled its third-quarter financial results, which saw the firm land a record third-quarter revenue of CAD 1.67 billion (US$1.2 billion). The company said it saw solid progress in its Specialty Foods’ core U.S. growth initiatives in protein and baked goods. However, its sandwiches group was impacted by consumer demand challenges that hit a major customer.

“Despite temporary headwinds faced by our Sandwich group in the quarter, we remain on course and continue to make...