For Nico Waasdorp of EcoSeafood, quality starts at the source. Literally. From his business, located right next to the fish auction in IJmuiden, he has been bringing fresh North Sea fish to consumers and chefs for many years. Well-known species, but also lesser-known bycatch fish, all have a place on the plate at EcoSeafood. With a passion that now spans three generations, the Waasdorp family dedicates itself every day to local, pure and flavourful products.
Entrepreneurship is a matter of falling and getting back up
Entrepreneurship was in Nico’s blood from an early age. He grew up in his parents’ business and was already helping out as a young boy. “I was already an entrepreneur in the fish trade at seventeen, but it was only after the birth of my first child that I knew for certain I wanted to go all in.” In the years that followed, he faced serious setbacks. Losing both parents in quick succession, illness, a major fire and business losses all demanded enormous perseverance. Giving up, however, was never an option. “My background in judo taught me that falling and getting back up is part of it. You always have to keep going.”
Pride and pleasure
What Nico is most proud of is his family. Together with his wife he built a family business in which the third generation now plays an important role. His son Niek is taking over a large part of the business. “That is perhaps what I find most beautiful: that he is picking up the baton. I want to keep advising and supporting him so he can move forward with confidence.” Nico also enjoys the fact that no two days are the same. The supply of fish, the seasons and weather conditions ensure constant variety. He also loves the contact with everyone in the chain: from fishermen and suppliers to chefs, students and consumers.
The fish, shellfish and seafood that EcoSeafood supplies are sustainably wild-caught and sustainably farmed — locally from the North Sea, rather than imported from distant countries. The company is certified for wild-caught fish with MSC and for farmed fish with ASC and BIO. Through Viskoop.nl you can order ultra-fresh fish online and have it delivered to your door. Being part of Locally Made feels to Nico like a confirmation of what he has stood for for years. “Local, pure products with a story, made with passion. That is what we believe in.”
Nico’s tip
For young entrepreneurs he has one important lesson: “Dare to ask advice from people who have been in business for years. Their experience is worth its weight in gold.”
