Benchmark sold Novo Holdings

Novo Holdings, a holding and investment company that handles Novo Nordisk’s assets and capital, recently went from the acquisition of Benchmark Genetics, which specializes in breeding for salmon and shrimp.

The purchase price amounts to up to £ 260 million, equivalent to about ISK 44 billion. Of that, £ 230m is paid at the time of delivery, but up to £ 30m additional payment is determined by the company’s success, according to a statement from Benchmark.

It states that the acquisition begins a new chapter in the company’s history, which includes increased innovation, growth and a stronger position in the field of genetic technology for aquaculture. The company is now privately owned and its headquarters have been moved to Bergen in Norway.

Benchmark Genetics has operated extensive operations in Iceland through the subsidiary Benchmark Genetics Iceland, which previously was named Stofnfiskur.

« This acquisition strengthens the position of Benchmark Genetics in Iceland further and opens new opportunities for growth and development, » said Benedikt Hálfdanarson, Managing Director of Benchmark Genetics in Iceland in the announcement. The Icelandic part of the Group was first established as an Icelandic company by the name of Stofnfisk

« We have grown rapidly in recent years and now have nearly 90 employees in this country who play an important and specialized role in our genetic engineering.

Plan on investments

The announcement also states that with Novo Holdings as a new owner, Benchmark Genetics is aiming to strengthen his position as a world leader. The aim is to enable the aquaculture industry to take advantage of the great opportunities inherent in genetic benefits and technology solutions to improve performance, sustainability and welfare in the production of marine products.

Emphasis on the coming quarters and years must therefore be strengthened and optimized for salmon and shrimp breeding plans, with the aim of improving product quality and performance in production and applying for new markets, utilizing the company’s knowledge and technology for more types.

Photo/Benchmark Genetics

The aim is to invest in production facilities and breeding stations in Norway, in Iceland, in Chile and elsewhere with the aim of strengthening infectious protection, delivery security and increased production capacity. Work will also be done on the development and strengthening of collaboration with key business friends, suppliers and research institutes, as stated in the announcement.

It is stated that the company’s goal is to increase the supply of genetic analysis and genotype analysis services to maximize the effects of genetic benefits in diverse types and in more markets.

Sustainable food production

It is reported that Novo Holdings has invested considerably in life sciences and today operates an investment collection with more than 150 companies. The acquisition of Benchmark is said to be in line with Novo Holdings’ policy of supporting the Earth’s health and promoting sustainable food production.

Recently, Novo Holdings invested in the Norwegian high -tech company Stingray Marine Solutions, which produces, among other things, laser beam weapons against salmon lice. Such equipment has been put into operation in one farm area in Iceland, as 200 miles have previously reported.

« We believe that genetic engineering can transform aquaculture, improve the welfare of animals and make food production more sustainable, » says Geir Olav Melingen, CEO of Benchmark Genetics in the announcement.

« With Novo Holdings as a new owner, we are in a stronger position to fulfill our role – developing high -performance and sustainable genetic solutions that create real value for aquaculture manufacturers around the world and promote healthier foods for consumers. »

Geir Olav Melingen, CEO of Benchmark Genetics

Photo/Benchmark Genetics