Benchmark Genetics is a global leader in aquaculture genetics, with a presence in all major aquaculture markets and expertise spanning a wide range of farmed species. Our core focus is on salmon and shrimp, supported by four in-house breeding programmes designed to deliver consistent, measurable genetic improvement to commercial production.
We are also the world’s leading provider of genetics services, drawing on experience from more than 40 applied breeding programmes across 30 species. This breadth of experience enables us to support both established and emerging aquaculture sectors with scientifically robust, commercially relevant genetic solutions.
Benchmark Genetics brings together Benchmark Genetics Norway AS, Benchmark Genetics Iceland H.F., Benchmark Genetics Chile, and Benchmark Genetics Shrimp. Our global breeding infrastructure includes dedicated breeding centres in Norway, Iceland, the United States, and Colombia, allowing us to operate close to customers and production environments worldwide.
Our strategy is innovation-led. We apply modern breeding technologies such as QTL-based selection and genomic selection to accelerate genetic gain in traits that matter most to our customers—growth, robustness, health, and production efficiency. Technology is a critical enabler, but it is not our sole focus. Long-standing partnerships with leading aquaculture companies are fundamental to how we work, ensuring that genetic improvement programmes are aligned with real-world production challenges and opportunities.
To maximise the value of our genetics, we place strong emphasis on technical support and knowledge transfer. Our sales and technical teams include specialists covering salmon, shrimp, and other key species, as well as a broad range of production systems, including RAS. This ensures our customers are supported in realising the full potential of our genetics throughout the production cycle.
On November 3rd, 2025, Kristian Botnen took over as the company’s CEO. He brings over a decade of senior leadership experience from the aquaculture industry and holds a strong track record in operational performance, strategic development and building high-performing teams.
Benchmark Genetics Chile announced a new business model, focusing exclusively on high-value genetics services for the aquaculture industry in Chile and across Latin America. The services will fill a gap in the growing demand for specialised genetic support, data-driven insights, and advisory services to improve fish performance and production outcomes.
Benchmark Genetics became a stand-alone company following new ownership by Novo Holdings, a leading holding and investment company that invests to benefit people and the planet. From April 1st, 2025, Benchmark Genetics is no longer part of Benchmark Holdings and has moved its headquarters to Bergen, Norway.
On March 1st, Benchmark Genetics launched a global aquaculture genotyping service. The service offers high-quality genotyping for a wide range of fish and shellfish species and the development of customized genotyping solutions.
By combining our long-established breeding programs and the latest genomic tools, we help aquaculture producers increase quality, yield, health, and animal welfare.
Our skilled professionals are evaluating every single detail in terms of probability of occurrence and their consequences. To reduce risk, we have implemented risk assessment followed by action plans and are continuously working to prevent specific events from happening.
Our sustainability strategy is aligned to address the risks and opportunities in nine ESG factors, all of which are aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
The wellbeing of our employees is of the utmost importance to us. We offer various programs to support physical, mental and social wellbeing of our employees.
Our ambition is to deliver the best customer experience in the aquatic breeding industry and to build long-lasting relationships with our clients.
