Foley Fish: A Seafood Success Story [TOWNSQUARE SUNDAY]

There aren't many businesses that last through four generations, but that is the case with Foley Fish Company of Boston and New Bedford,

M. F. Foley was an Irish immigrant who started the company in 1906 in Boston with a commitment to selling the freshest fish possible. That commitment has continued for more than a century with members of the Foley family remaining at the helm of the business.

Michael F. Foley, the founder's grandson, opened the plant in New Bedford in 1981. After retiring, he came up with the idea of honoring the family's history and the company's employees by writing a book. Swimming Upstream: Four Generations of Fishmongering is an amazing story about an immigrant's struggle to start a business with almost nothing, and his family continuing that company through four generations.

Foley Fish is now serving customers from Bermuda to Hawaii, providing them with the freshest, most flavorful seafood in the business. The author's daughter, Laura Foley Ramsden, is now operating the company.

Michael Foley talked this week by phone with Townsquare Sunday about his book, this family history, and some of the reasons behind his company's success.

Townsquare Sunday is a public affairs program heard every Sunday on 1420 WBSM. It highlights individuals and organizations working to improve the quality of life in Greater New Bedford.

If you would like to feature your organization on Townsquare Sunday, please e-mail the host at jim.phillips@townsquaremedia.com.

Enter your number to get our free mobile app