The Federation of European Aquaculture Producers (FEAP) has named German fish farmer Josef Stier as the first recipient of the FEAP–Laschinger NextGen Award, recognising his entrepreneurial drive and commitment to innovation in European aquaculture.
The award, presented at FEAP’s Annual Meeting in Munich in November, forms part of the organisation’s NextGen initiative launched in 2024 to support young professionals across the sector. It was established jointly with the late Rudolf Laschinger, a pioneering Bavarian aquaculture entrepreneur whose legacy of innovation underpins the accolade.
Following a competitive selection process, FEAP’s jury unanimously chose Stier for his leadership of Stier Satzfisch GmbH and his forward-looking approach to modern fish farming. Despite his young age, Stier has built a reputation for blending traditional Bavarian aquaculture with advanced technologies, including recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS), renewable energy solutions and insect-based feed development.
In 2024 he took over the long-established Fischzucht Stephan Hofer facility in Schelklingen, Germany, where he has continued operations while implementing strategic upgrades and expanding collaborative research. His work includes participating in EU-funded trials on insect larvae in salmonid feed and projects aimed at improving feed efficiency and production performance.
“Mr Stier embodies the values this award seeks to celebrate: innovation, sustainability, leadership and dedication to the growth of European aquaculture,” FEAP President Lara Barazi-Geroulanou said. “He is a true example of the next generation of aquaculture entrepreneurs who will shape the future of our sector.”
The award brings with it a €10,000 prize to support Stier’s ongoing work. FEAP intends to present the NextGen Award every two years, spotlighting emerging talent across Europe’s diverse aquaculture subsectors.
