Operating Since The 1950s
Our store first opened its doors in the 1950s. Ernest’s Marine Centre has always been a family business that prides itself on customer satisfaction, generational experience and a wide network of suppliers from all over the world. Our business is now in its third generation, and even though much has changed around us, the way we run our business is still the original and infallible method we have always believed in, honesty, integrity and superior quality products at sensible prices.
We have always presented our clients with a selection of imported and locally-made fishing equipment, tackle, marine safety equipment and boat supplies – both retail and wholesale. We at Ernest’s Marine Centre also export and distribute a selection of items to other stores.
Decades Later
Fishing in the past was mainly artisanal, with the Maltese fishing fleet at the time consisting mostly of small to medium-sized boats with limited facilities on-board – this did not allow for more than a couple of days out at sea. Trading started out with the importation on ropes and twines for local fishermen, which were distributed upon arrival.
In 1975 our first retail outlet was opened within the wholesale fish market in Valletta where fishermen could buy basic fishing tackle when bringing in their daily catch. Products sold at the time included monolines, hooks, nets, floats and fishing lights.
In 1987, our operations shifted to a larger establishment in Marsaxlokk, making it more accessible to a wider range of fishermen. The new larger premises and fast-evolving fishing industry in Malta paved the way for a wider product range to be stocked.
By 1990, Ernest’s Marine Centre’s products included lures, jigs, fishing wear, rods, reels and a wide array of gear and accessories. The introduction of these articles appealed to the recreational fisherman as well, thanks to the rise in popularity of fishing as a pastime rather than a professional activity.
In order to reach a wider variety of consumers, wholesale distribution was also undertaken with customers including pet shops and ironmongeries in Malta and Gozo.
In 1993, E.G. Trading Co. Ltd was registered as a limited liability company. By this time, the fishing industry in Malta had developed extensively, with the Maltese fishing fleet including vessels over 20 metres in length.
By 2003, Malta was on the verge of joining the European Union, and in order for the fishing fleet to upgrade its safety equipment, financial aid was given by the government for fishermen to purchase safety equipment such as life rafts, life jackets, flares, and suchlike. Seeing the opportunity to increase its product range further, E.G. Trading Co. Ltd started importing safety accessories – enabling fishermen to purchase all their required equipment to upgrade their vessels.
Our Mission
Our goal is to provide commercial and recreational fishermen in Malta and abroad with superior-quality tackle, equipment and accessories at competitive prices.
Why Choose Us?
We offer deliveries to wholesale clients in most areas of Malta, as well as send orders placed by phone or email to customers in Gozo on a weekly basis through a courier service.
Ernest's Marine Centre has been a proud member of The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise & Industry and The Maltese Italian Chamber of Commerce since 1989.