November 20, 2024

Aker QRILL Company launches as leader in sustainable marine ingredients

Aker QRILL Company, formerly the fishing and aquaculture division of Aker BioMarine, has officially launched, establishing the company as a leader in sustainable krill harvesting and a provider of premium marine ingredients for aquaculture, animal feed, and nutraceutical industries.

he newly independent company is supported by its joint owners, American Industrial Partners (AIP) and Aker Capital. Building on its legacy under Aker BioMarine, Aker QRILL Company will continue to develop its flagship brands, QRILL Aqua and QRILL Pet, as it moves forward with its mission to advance sustainability and innovation.

Webjørn Barstad, CEO of Aker QRILL Company, expressed optimism about the company's future. "While our name may be new, our commitment to excellence remains unwavering," he stated. "We're building upon years of expertise and innovation and are excited to chart our own course in delivering sustainable, superior krill ingredients with the highest quality standards."

Aker QRILL Company's operations focus on sustainably harvesting Antarctic krill to produce marine ingredients that support animal health, growth, and welfare. The company ensures transparency and traceability across its entire value chain, from krill harvesting in Antarctica to its global distribution network via Montevideo. This approach is bolstered by rigorous scientific research and a commitment to world-class sustainability standards.

Jeff Birenbaum, partner at AIP, highlighted the partnership's potential. "AIP is proud to collaborate with Aker QRILL Company and Aker Capital to further the company's position as an innovator in sustainable marine ingredients. From advanced krill harvesting operations to cutting-edge research, we see a strong foundation for growth to support customers in enhancing outcomes in animal, pet, and human health."

Øyvind Eriksen, president and CEO of Aker ASA, underscored the importance of the venture within Aker's industrial portfolio. "Aker is excited to be part of this journey and has already seen positive results from the collaboration with AIP. This venture is crucial to our industrial strategy, and we remain committed to supporting management in achieving future growth and innovation."

Since its establishment in 2006 as part of Aker BioMarine, Aker QRILL Company has pioneered the use of krill as a premium marine ingredient. The company has developed eco-friendly harvesting technologies and conducted extensive research on the benefits of krill across species. These efforts were recognised with a recent award for being the world's most innovative company.

Aker QRILL Company's focus on growth, sustainability, and innovation remains central as it embarks on this new chapter. Its leadership aims to set industry benchmarks while continuing to deliver high-quality krill-based solutions globally.

-      Aker QRILL Company