SEAPA is thrilled to celebrate the impressive achievements of long-time customers Benji and Yann-Ge Drevici, who showcased their deep-rooted expertise in the French oyster industry by securing podium finishes at the 2024 French Oyster and Scallop Championship, held at the Port of Vannes in Morbihan. Competing in regional rounds, the Drevici brothers clinched first and third place respectively, earning the right to represent the region at the national finals in Paris in February 2025.

For Yann-Ge, the competition provided a valuable opportunity to bridge the divide between oyster farming and sales. “It’s one thing to raise oysters, another to prepare and sell them,” he commented. “By investing in SEAPA baskets, we get a great return on investment with our business-to-customer (B2C) sales.”

The Drevici brothers’ oysters, grown in SEAPA baskets on the Penerf River in Surzur, are a staple at the Parisian markets, where they are celebrated for their premium quality. The French Championship, however, tested more than their farming skills. Competing against five seasoned contestants from prominent seafood restaurants in Brest and Paris, Benji and Yann-Ge were evaluated across three challenging categories.

First, they demonstrated their general knowledge of seafood, covering topics like storage temperatures for freshness and different oyster farming regions across France. The second test challenged their speed and precision in shucking, requiring them to open four dozen oysters with skill and efficiency. Benji’s performance was particularly notable; he set a new milestone as the first oyster farmer to win the shucking contest, completing the task in just over six minutes. “I was surprised to win first place,” Benji remarked. “The other contestants were sharp and experienced, and they all did a great job.”

For the final segment, the brothers were given 60 minutes to craft an impressive seafood buffet featuring a variety of shellfish, including oysters, clams, mussels, crabs, and lobsters. Their platter showcased the skills and dedication the Drevicis bring to every facet of their work, from cultivation to preparation.

As they advance to the national contest in Paris, SEAPA wishes Benji and Yann-Ge every success. Their commitment to quality, supported by SEAPA’s innovative basket technology, is a testament to what’s possible when dedication meets the right tools. “I’m looking forward to the national contest in Paris and learning new skills to win,” Benji said, looking ahead to February.

Congratulations to the Drevici brothers – their success is a source of pride for SEAPA and the entire oyster farming community.