OSLO, NORWAY — The launch of Aker QRILL Company, formerly the fishing and aquaculture brand under Aker BioMarine, was announced Nov. 19. Through this launch, Aker QRILL Company aims to be at the forefront of sustainable krill harvesting and become a top supplier of premium marine ingredients for the aquaculture, animal feed, pet food and nutraceutical industries. 

More than just a name change, Aker QRILL Company is now supported by new ownership from American Industrial Partners (AIP) and Aker Capital. With the launch, Aker BioMarine promises a new era in the company and the development of its brands QRILL Aqua and QRILL Pet.

“While our name may be new, our commitment to excellence remains unwavering,” said Webjørn Barstad, chief executive officer of Aker QRILL Company. “We’re building upon years of expertise and innovation developed as part of Aker BioMarine, and we’re excited to now chart our own course in delivering sustainable, superior krill ingredients with the highest quality standards.”

Aker QRILL Company will operate under its mission — to sustainably harvest Antarctic krill and deliver marine ingredients that enhance animals’ health, growth and welfare worldwide.

“AIP is proud to partner with Aker QRILL Company and Aker Capital to support further development of the company’s position as a leading innovator of advanced and sustainable marine ingredients,” said Jeff Birenbaum, partner at AIP. “From Aker QRILL Company’s high-tech krill harvesting operations to their cutting-edge science and research, AIP sees a strong foundation for further growth to support our customers’ ambitions to enhance outcomes in animal, pet and human health.” 

“Aker is excited to be a part of this journey, and we’ve already witnessed a positive impact from the collaboration with AIP,” added Øyvind Eriksen, president and CEO of Aker ASA. “This venture is an important component in our industrial portfolio, and we are committed to support the management as we move into the next phase of growth and innovation.”

From harvesting in Antarctic waters via its logistics hub in Montevideo, Uruguay, to customers worldwide, the Aker QRILL’s operations span the entire value chain to offer transparency and traceability of its products. This total control of operations is designed to allow the company to maintain high-quality standards while meeting the growing demand globally for sustainable marine ingredients.

With this new era of Aker QRILL Company, the company states that it remains dedicated to driving growth, maintaining the highest sustainability standards and continuing to innovate and provide quality ingredients. 

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