Founded in Ayden, North Carolina, Classic Seafood Group, Inc. has emerged as a leading supplier of premium seafood products in the United States. Known primarily for its acclaimed Carolina Classics Catfish brand, the company specializes in the processing, packaging, and distribution of high-quality catfish and a variety of other seafood offerings. With a focus on sustainability, freshness, and food safety, Classic Seafood Group caters to foodservice operators, grocery chains, and distributors across the country.
Core Business
Classic Seafood Group operates as a vertically integrated seafood processor and distributor. Their core business revolves around sourcing U.S.-farmed catfish and select wild-caught seafood species, which are processed and packaged in-house to maintain maximum freshness and control over quality standards. The company is dedicated to serving high-volume institutional markets with consistent product availability and specification adherence.
Product and Service Offerings
Classic Seafood Group offers a comprehensive line of both farm-raised and wild-caught seafood products. Their portfolio includes:
Fresh Catfish
- Catfish Fillet
- Catfish Nuggets
- Catfish Strips
- Whole Dressed Catfish
Premium Seafood Selections
- Wild Gulf Shrimp
- Wild Atlantic Cod
- Rainbow Trout
- Mahi-Mahi
- Gluten-Free Maryland Crabcake
- Coho Salmon
- Atlantic Salmon
- Ahi Tuna
All products are available fresh or frozen and can be packaged according to customer requirements. Their offerings are tailored to meet the needs of foodservice operations, school systems, healthcare facilities, and national retailers.
Specialization and Core USP
Classic Seafood Group’s unique value proposition lies in its specialization in farm-raised catfish under the Carolina Classics Catfish brand. Key differentiators include:
- Fish raised in U.S.-based, eco-friendly ponds
- Processing within hours of harvest to preserve freshness
- No antibiotics or growth hormones used in farming
- Rigorous quality control and traceability from pond to plate
The company is known for its ability to deliver consistent portion sizes, texture, and taste, making it a preferred supplier for institutional buyers and chefs alike.
Financials and Shipment Data
While the company does not publicly disclose its financial performance, procurement and distribution data show that:
- The company ships to over 30 U.S. states
- Annual processing exceeds 2 million pounds of catfish
- Has maintained continuous supply contracts with school districts and regional grocery chains for over 10 years
According to shipment tracking data from platforms like ImportYeti and Panjiva, Classic Seafood Group has limited international activity, focusing primarily on domestic markets, with the occasional export shipment to Canada and the Caribbean.
Target Market
The company’s primary market segments include:
- Foodservice distributors
- Institutional food programs (schools, hospitals, correctional facilities)
- Retail chains and specialty grocers
- Seafood wholesalers and regional distribution centers
Their catfish products, in particular, are positioned as a healthier, traceable alternative protein ideal for institutional menus and retail seafood programs.
Capabilities
- In-house processing and filleting facility in Ayden, NC
- Vacuum-sealing, portion control, and private labeling options
- Cold storage and freezer infrastructure for high-volume orders
- Logistics coordination for just-in-time delivery across multiple regions
Certifications and Compliance
- USDA inspected facility
- HAACP-compliant operations
- Products raised and processed in accordance with Best Aquaculture Practices (BAP)
- Regular third-party food safety audits and internal quality assurance programs
These certifications underscore the company’s dedication to food safety, compliance, and responsible aquaculture.
Customer Testimonials
"We’ve used Carolina Classics Catfish in our restaurant for over five years. The consistency and flavor are unmatched."
– Executive Chef, Raleigh, NC
"Their responsiveness and delivery reliability make them one of our most trusted suppliers."
– Regional Distributor, Southeastern U.S.
Major Achievements
- Recognized as a pioneer in the East Coast's farm-raised catfish industry
- Introduced gluten-free seafood options for the foodservice sector
- Expanded product range to include wild-caught premium seafood while maintaining sustainable sourcing
- Built a distribution network capable of servicing coast-to-coast accounts with reliable turnaround
Classic Seafood Group, Inc. continues to build on its legacy of quality, sustainability, and trusted supply, reinforcing its position as a leading name in the U.S. seafood supply chain.
