Three Norwegian salmon farming companies have agreed to acquire Arctic Seafood Group (ASG), securing local ownership of a growing aquaculture business and expanding their production capacity in northern Norway.
Sjybol, Kobbvåglaks and Selsøyvik Havbruk will purchase 100% of the shares in ASG, giving the consortium control of Organic Seafarm, which holds 1,856 tonnes of commercial maximum allowed biomass for salmon production. The acquisition also includes three farming sites in Nordfjorden, Gildeskål, together with the company’s operating organisation, land base and operations centre in Nygårdsjøen.
ASG is also known through its San Francisco-based distribution business, Arctic Seafoods, a major supplier of Barents Sea Red King Crab and Opilio snow crab to the US market.
Following completion of the transaction, Sjybol – owner of Lovundlaks – will hold a 49% stake, while Kobbvåglaks and Selsøyvik Havbruk will each own 25.5%.
Jørgen Aakre, general manager of Sjybol, said the acquisition demonstrates that independent producers can continue to invest despite increasing consolidation across the sector.
“It is a pleasure that we, as small and medium-sized players, can together strengthen local ownership in the region, especially at a time when consolidation in the industry is the norm.”
He added that maintaining strong regional ownership would benefit both the industry and coastal communities.
ASG has produced salmon since 2016, expanding through licence acquisitions and the development of production sites. The company says it has achieved high survival rates, strong fish quality and low feed conversion ratios through local expertise, collaboration with neighbouring operators and favourable environmental conditions.
The sellers include Friendmall, Hawk Seafood and company employees.
ASG general manager Nicolaj Weiergang said the deal would provide a solid foundation for future growth while preserving jobs and expertise.
“This secures local roots and helps preserve value creation, jobs and expertise along the coast,” he said.
“With skilled employees, a clear focus on profitable operations, and strong biological results, we are well-equipped to compete with the biggest players in the market. We are convinced that this is a good solution for the company, our employees and its continued development.”
The transaction, expected to complete during July 2026, follows the separation of ASG’s cod farming activities, leaving the group focused solely on salmon production through Organic Seafarm and its analytics subsidiary, AFC Analytics.
