Benchmark agrees SalMar deal
Animal health company Benchmark has signed a long-term agreement with leading salmon producer SalMar to provide genetics, health and knowledge services to the company, it was announced today.
Benchmark will, through its subsidiary SalmoBreed, form a 50/50 joint venture for the production of SalMar's salmon strain, Rauma. This joint venture - called SalMar Genetic - will be formed by a demerger of SalMar's salmon production facility in Reistad, Norway. Benchmark will take full responsibility for managing the breeding programme through its subsidiary Akvaforsk Genetics Center.
Malcolm Pye, chief executive of Benchmark, said: “We are delighted to sign an agreement with such a blue-chip partner in the salmon market. It is testament to our customers' recognition of the benefits of our growing, integrated package of products and services, as well as our ability to enhance value for producers and contribute towards the overall sustainability of the aquaculture industry.”
The agreement with Salmar also includes sales of eggs from Benchmark's land-based sites in Iceland.
"The Benchmark group will also provide fish health services, diagnostics and health products", said SalmoBreed chief executive Jan-Emil Johannessen.
A statement released by Benchmark added: “The full suite of services the company is providing illustrates Benchmark's leading position in the market, as well as its ability to offer a wide spread of products and solutions across the salmon's life cycle.”
