SalMar expands in Norway as consolidation reshapes salmon farming sector.
SalMar has announced two acquisitions to strengthen its position in Norwegian salmon farming.
In February 2025, the company completed the acquisition of a controlling stake in AS Knutshaugfisk, securing 3,466 tonnes MTB in licenses across four farming locations in Mid-Norway.
The company has also moved to consolidate its stake in Wilsgård AS. Since acquiring NTS and merging with NRS in 2022, the company has held a 37.5% stake in Wilsgård. In February, SalMar and Wilsgård Sea Service AS, which together own 75% of Wilsgård AS, announced plans to explore further consolidation. Wilsgård operates in Northern Norway, with 5,844 tonnes MTB in licenses and a significant presence on Senja.
“Wilsgård AS is a well-run company based on Senja. They operate in one of SalMar’s core areas, which is one of the best areas in the world for farming. Over many years, SalMar has had a good relationship with the company,” said Frode Arntsen, CEO of SalMar.
The acquisitions are part of SalMar’s strategy to expand its footprint in key farming regions and enhance production capacity. The company continues to focus on sustainable growth and operational efficiency in Norway’s aquaculture sector.
The move comes as rival Mowi expands its dominance with the recent acquisition of a controlling stake in Nova Sea, one of Norway’s largest independent salmon farmers.
By expanding its Norwegian operations, SalMar is reinforcing its position as the country’s second-largest salmon producer and ensuring it remains competitive in a sector increasingly dominated by large-scale operators.
The industry’s rapid consolidation is expected to shape the competitive landscape in the coming years, with larger producers leveraging economies of scale and supply chain efficiencies to maintain profitability.
