Newly formed trout powerhouse will now be producing 15,000 tonnes annually for the US market.
In a press release, Idaho’s Riverence Holdings writes that it has acquired Buhl, Idaho-based trout farmer Clear Springs Foods.
Largest
Riverence Holdings was already the largest land-based producer of steelhead and rainbow trout in the Americas. But by acquiring the US’ biggest trout farmer, it is now the biggest on both counts.
The company uses RAS tech to raise fish such as golden rainbow trout which has gained praise from celebrity chefs such as Andrew Zimmern, and a spot on the menus of restaurants like Tender Greens, GT Fish & Oyster, Sparrow & Wolf, The Breadfruit & Rum Bar, Momofuku and Imoto.
The two companies will have full ‘egg to plate’ control of the supply chain, as well as increased production, processing, and distribution capacity.
Future of American aquaculture
The family of businesses now includes Riverence Brood in Washington, Riverence Farms in Idaho, and Clear Springs Foods—Riverence’s neighbour in Idaho’s Magic Valley. The Magic Valley will continue to be the base of operations for both Riverence and Clear Springs Foods, with the intent to maintain existing brands, team members, and the markets they serve.
“We believe in aquaculture and sustainable, land-based production of seafood,” said Rob Young, CEO of Riverence. “With this investment, we are deepening our commitment to doing what’s right in support of our communities, the fish we produce, and the natural resources we share. Together, we stand ready to redefine farm-raised fish and the future of American aquaculture.”
“We’re starting to reimagine the potential of the US trout industry,” said Jeff Jermunson, CEO of Clear Springs Foods. “We are honoured to begin the next chapter of our company’s long history as part of the Riverence family.”
15,000 tonnes annually
The Riverence portfolio now includes 14 farms able to produce more than 15,000 tonnes annually, four brood stations, two processing facilities, a value-added processing facility, a waste recovery plant, and a feed mill. Shared resources also include a fleet of 12 over-the-road tractor-trailer combos providing nationwide market access to all Riverence and Clear Springs products.
