Wholesale Crab Prices​ - Buy Crab in Bulk

For businesses looking to buy crab in bulk, securing wholesale prices is an essential way to ensure cost-efficiency and a steady supply of high-quality crab. Whether you're a restaurant, seafood distributor, or retailer, understanding the current wholesale crab prices, the factors influencing these prices, and the trends in consumer demand can help you make informed decisions. This article dives into the current pricing, seasonal shifts, and more.

What Are the Current Wholesale Shrimp Prices?

Wholesale crab prices typically range from £8 to £18 per kilogram, depending on the variety of crab, size, and sourcing location. Prices can vary greatly between species like King Crab, Brown Crab, and Dungeness Crab, and factors like freshness, processing method, and supply chain conditions will also play a role in price determination.

Factors Affecting Wholesale Shrimp Prices

1. Species and Size of Crab

Different crab species, such as King Crab, Snow Crab, and Brown Crab, have varying price points. King Crab, for instance, tends to be the most expensive, while Brown Crab is generally more affordable. The size of the crab also influences pricing, with larger crabs typically costing more.

2. Supply Chain and Transportation Costs

Crabs are often caught in colder waters, meaning they require careful handling and transport. Freight and refrigeration costs can significantly impact the price, especially if the crabs are being shipped internationally.

3. Seasonality

Crab prices can fluctuate throughout the year based on fishing and harvesting cycles. For example, peak seasons for certain types of crabs, like Dungeness Crab, may lead to lower prices due to an abundant supply, while off-seasons can lead to price increases due to limited availability.

4. Fishing Methods and Sustainability

Crabs caught through sustainable, eco-friendly methods typically come at a premium price. Consumers and businesses are increasingly seeking sustainably sourced crab, and this demand can drive up wholesale prices.

5. Labor and Operational Costs

Labor costs involved in harvesting, processing, and packaging crabs influence the final price. In countries with higher labor costs, such as the US or the UK, these expenses are passed on to buyers, making wholesale crab prices higher.

Top International Wholesale Crab Suppliers

1. SEAFOOD AND EAT IT PROCESSING

Based in the United Kingdom, Seafood and Eat It Processing specializes in high-quality crab products sourced from Cornwall. Known for their premium handpicked white crabmeat and rich brown crabmeat, they also offer gluten-free crab cakes that cater to a variety of tastes. Their diverse selection of crab products makes them an ideal supplier for businesses looking to buy wholesale crab in bulk, especially for those seeking authentic Cornish seafood offerings.

2. PITTMAN SEAFOODS

Pittman Seafoods, located in Belgium, is a family-owned business that has built a reputation for high-quality seafood products over more than two decades. Their product range includes a variety of seafood, with a focus on king crab and snow crab. Known for their commitment to quality, service, and flexible delivery schedules, Pittman Seafoods is a trusted supplier for wholesale crab, providing businesses with premium crab products at competitive prices.

3. MACDUFF SHELLFISH (SCOTLAND) LTD

Macduff Shellfish, based in the United Kingdom, is renowned for processing high-quality wild seafood. With over 130 years of experience, they offer a wide variety of shellfish, including Brown Crab, Velvet Crab, and other wild-caught crabs. Their dedication to sustainability and fresh sourcing makes them an ideal supplier for businesses seeking to buy wholesale crab in bulk, offering top-tier products for retail and foodservice industries.

4. SEA FRESH LTD

Sea Fresh Ltd, located in the United Kingdom, is a leading online fishmonger offering a wide range of high-quality frozen fish and seafood products, including crab. Their frozen crab products, such as Cromer Dressed Crab, are sustainably sourced and packed for optimal freshness. With a convenient next-day delivery service, Sea Fresh is a reliable choice for businesses looking to purchase wholesale crab, ensuring quality and convenience for their customers.

5. ANATOLIY TORCHINOV PRIMORYE'S FISHERING COMPANY, CO., LTD

Based in Russia, Anatoliy Torchinov Primorye’s Fishing Company is a key supplier of a variety of seafood products, including high-quality crab. Their offerings include crab packaged in vacuum-sealed and plastic pouches to maintain freshness. With a focus on the Russian seafood industry, they provide extensive opportunities for businesses looking to buy wholesale crab in bulk, delivering quality and convenience for clients worldwide.

6. JONAS SEAFOODS LIMITED

Based in the United Kingdom, Jonas Seafoods is a specialist supplier renowned for its premium lobster and Cromer crab. They offer an extensive selection of crab products, including large whole cooked Cromer crabs, medium fresh dressed crabs, and small crabs served in scallop shells. Their commitment to quality and sustainability ensures that customers receive top-notch seafood for their businesses. With a variety of options available, Jonas Seafoods is a reliable supplier for wholesale crab in bulk, providing both quality and freshness for the foodservice and retail industries.

7. MYTILOS P.C.

Located in Greece, Mytilos offers an exceptional range of Greek seafood, including their highly sought-after king crab and blue crab. Known for their commitment to sustainability and freshness, Mytilos ensures that their products meet the highest standards. Their king crab, with its rich flavor and large size, is a popular choice for wholesale buyers. Whether you're looking to add Mediterranean specialties to your offerings or seeking top-tier crab for large-scale events, Mytilos P.C. provides a reliable source of premium crab products that are perfect for bulk purchasing.

8. SHELLFISH IRELAND

Shellfish Ireland, based in Ireland, is a premier supplier of high-quality seafood with a focus on sustainability. Their offerings include a wide variety of crabs, including fresh and frozen options, catering to both small and large-scale businesses. From live crabs to expertly prepared cocktail crab claws, they provide a versatile selection perfect for retail or foodservice businesses. Their family-run operation ensures top-tier quality, and they pride themselves on delivering fresh, responsibly sourced seafood to wholesalers looking to buy crab in bulk.

9. W HARVEY & SONS LIMITED

W. Harvey & Sons, located in the United Kingdom, has been a leading supplier of crab and other shellfish since 1955. They specialize in handpicked white and brown crabmeat, as well as Cornish dressed crabs and whole crabs from the region. With a commitment to sustainable fishing practices and local sourcing, they offer products that are both high-quality and ethically produced. For businesses looking to buy crab in bulk, W. Harvey & Sons is a trusted name, delivering fresh, responsibly sourced crab options for various wholesale needs.

10. BERWICK SHELLFISH

Berwick Shellfish, situated in the United Kingdom, is known for its premium seafood sourced directly from the North Sea. Their range of crab products includes pure white crab meat, whole cooked crab claws, and jumbo whole cooked crab claws, as well as frozen options like Alaskan snow crab. With a dedication to freshness and sustainable practices, they offer wholesale crab in bulk to retailers and foodservice providers. Their ability to deliver next-day ensures businesses receive the freshest products, making Berwick Shellfish a dependable partner for all your bulk crab needs.

Wholesale Crab Prices vs Retail Crab Prices

Wholesale crab prices are generally much lower than retail prices because they eliminate many additional costs associated with consumer sales, like packaging, distribution, and store markups. For example, wholesale crab prices in the UK can range from £8 to £18 per kilogram, while retail prices can go as high as £20 to £35 per kilogram, depending on the species and freshness.

Crab Consumer Trends

1. Demand for Sustainable Crab

More consumers are becoming environmentally conscious and are looking for sustainable seafood options. This trend towards sustainability is also seen in the wholesale market, where demand for sustainably sourced crab can affect pricing.

2. Preference for Fresh vs Frozen Crab

While fresh crab often commands a premium, frozen crab is increasingly popular due to its longer shelf life and ease of storage. Consumers and businesses alike are balancing cost and quality when choosing between fresh and frozen options.

3. Exotic Crab Varieties

There is growing interest in exotic crab varieties like King Crab and Snow Crab. These species are often marketed as premium seafood, leading to higher prices. The demand for these exotic options is driving changes in the wholesale crab market.

4. Focus on Convenience

Consumers are increasingly seeking convenient seafood options, such as pre-cooked and ready-to-eat crab. This trend is leading to a rise in processed crab products, which can command higher prices due to the added convenience.

5. Health and Nutrition Trends

As people become more health-conscious, crab, with its high protein content and low fat, is gaining popularity. This trend is influencing both retail and wholesale crab pricing, as businesses seek to meet the growing demand for nutritious and protein-rich foods.

FAQs

1. How many crabs is 1kg?

The number of crabs per kilogram depends on the species and size. For example, smaller crabs like Brown Crab might yield more than 5 crabs per kilogram, while larger crabs like King Crab might only provide one or two crabs per kilogram.

2. Which crab is cheapest?

Brown Crab is typically the cheapest option available at wholesale. It's more abundant and found in a wider range of coastal areas compared to rarer varieties like King Crab.

3. How is wholesale crab shipped and stored?

Wholesale crab is typically shipped either fresh or frozen. It is stored in refrigerated conditions to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage. In some cases, crabs are stored in ice-packed boxes to ensure they remain at a safe temperature during transport.

4. Which types of crab are available at wholesale in the UK?

In the UK, common wholesale crab varieties include Brown Crab, Dungeness Crab, and King Crab. Some more exotic options, such as Snow Crab and Spider Crab, may also be available, though they are less common.

5. Do wholesale crab prices change seasonally in the UK?

Yes, wholesale crab prices can fluctuate seasonally based on the availability of different crab species. Prices tend to be lower during peak harvest seasons and higher during off-seasons when supply is limited.