NORWAY – Aker QRILL Company, a newly independent entity spun off from Aker BioMarine’s Feed Ingredients division, has officially launched with a mission to deliver premium, sustainable krill ingredients to the global aquaculture, animal feed, and nutraceutical industries.
This development follows a strategic review and subsequent sale agreement in July, valuing the division at US$590 million.
The company is jointly owned by American Industrial Partners (AIP) (60%) and Aker Capital (40%), both of which bring extensive expertise and strategic focus to the venture.
The launch of Aker QRILL Company signifies a significant evolution into an independent global entity with robust foundations in sustainability and innovation.
CEO Webjørn Barstad emphasised the continuity of excellence that defines the company’s operations.
“While our name may be new, our commitment to excellence remains unwavering. We’re building upon years of expertise and innovation developed as part of Aker BioMarine and are excited to chart our course now,” Barstad said in a press release.
The company’s operations are fully integrated, spanning harvesting krill in the pristine Antarctic waters to global distribution via its logistics hub in Montevideo, Uruguay.
This end-to-end control ensures transparency and traceability, which are core to Aker QRILL’s promise of sustainability.
Under the joint leadership of AIP and Aker Capital, Aker QRILL Company is well-positioned to meet the growing demand for sustainable marine ingredients.
AIP Partner Jeff Birenbaum praised the company’s innovative capabilities, highlighting its advanced krill harvesting technology and cutting-edge research.
“AIP is proud to support Aker QRILL Company’s growth as a leading innovator in the marine ingredients sector,” said Birenbaum.
Aker ASA CEO Øyvind Eriksen echoed this sentiment, expressing confidence in the synergy between AIP and Aker Capital.
“This venture is an important component of our industrial portfolio, and we are committed to supporting its growth and innovation,” Eriksen added.
Aker QRILL aims to deliver sustainable solutions that enhance animal health, growth, and welfare.
With flagship products like QRILL Aqua, the company will continue serving sectors including aquaculture, pet food, and nutraceuticals, ensuring its high-quality marine ingredients meet rigorous scientific standards.
As Aker QRILL embarks on this next chapter, its focus remains on driving innovation and sustainability while delivering superior products to its global customer base.
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