How to Set Up a Fish Shop from Scratch – Equipment and Licences

Why is a fish shop a promising business in Romania?

Consumption of fish and seafood is on the rise in Romania, and well-equipped, properly licensed fish shops are attracting a growing base of loyal customers. Whether you want to open a specialist retail store, a market stall or a fish counter within a HoReCa restaurant, the first step is to understand what properly fitting out such a space entails. The right refrigeration equipment and compliance with sanitary regulations are the foundations of a successful fish shop.

Mandatory licences for a fish shop

Before purchasing your first piece of equipment, you need to complete several administrative steps. Romanian authorities impose clear standards for the sale of fishery products, and failure to comply can result in fines or even the closure of your premises.

Veterinary sanitary authorisation – issued by the county Sanitary-Veterinary and Food Safety Directorate (DSVSA). It is mandatory for any premises where fresh, chilled or frozen fish is sold.
Environmental permit – required depending on the activities carried out and the quantities of waste generated.
ONRC registration – the legal form of the business (SRL, PFA, etc.) must be established before any other authorisation is sought.
Operating licence – issued by the local municipality, depending on the intended use of the premises.
DSP notification – the Public Health Directorate must be informed of the activity being carried out.

We recommend consulting a specialist in food law and contacting the DSVSA in the county where you intend to operate, as requirements may vary locally.

Essential refrigeration equipment for a fish shop

Fish is an extremely temperature-sensitive product. The cold chain must be maintained continuously, from goods receipt through to the point of sale. Investing in quality refrigeration equipment is not a luxury – it is an absolute necessity.

Display fridges for fresh fish

Iced or direct-cooling display fridges are the centrepiece of any fish shop. They allow attractive product presentation while keeping items at the correct temperatures (0°C – 4°C). MODACO offers display fridges specifically designed for fish retail, featuring a modern design, easy-to-clean surfaces and an energy-efficient cooling system. These units are manufactured in Romania, in Găești, and are tailored to the requirements of local commercial premises.

Freezers and chest freezers

For frozen fish, you need freezers capable of reaching -18°C or lower. Horizontal or vertical chest freezers are suitable for displaying and storing frozen products. MODACO also manufactures this type of equipment, sized for commercial spaces of varying dimensions.

Cold storage room

If you intend to handle large volumes of stock, a refrigerated cold storage room is indispensable. It allows you to store significant quantities of fish under optimal conditions without risking losses due to temperature fluctuations.

Auxiliary equipment

Certified scales – mandatory for selling by the piece or by the kilogram.
Stainless steel work tables – for cleaning and portioning fish.
Ventilation system – essential for odour extraction and maintaining hygiene.
Sink with running water – a basic sanitary requirement.

Fitting out the space – practical tips

The floor must be non-slip and easy to clean. Walls in the work area must be tiled or finished with another waterproof material to a height of at least 2 metres. Adequate lighting showcases the displayed products and creates an atmosphere of trust for the customer. Remember that first impressions matter enormously when selling fresh food products.

Calculating the initial investment

The costs of opening a fish shop vary depending on the size of the premises, the type of equipment chosen and the geographical location. A realistic estimate includes rent or purchase of the premises, refrigeration equipment, licences, fit-out works and the initial stock. Choosing durable, efficient refrigeration equipment – such as that manufactured by MODACO – reduces long-term maintenance costs and protects your investment.

Contact MODACO for the right equipment for your fish shop

With over 30 years of experience in manufacturing commercial display fridges and refrigeration equipment, MODACO is the trusted partner for entrepreneurs who want to get their business off to the right start. Our team can provide personalised consultancy to help you choose the equipment that best suits the size and profile of your business.

Call us now on 0727.324.787 and find out how we can help you equip your fish shop with reliable, Romanian-made refrigeration equipment at competitive prices!