SalmoBreed was established in a market dominated by a single supplier of salmon genetics. For some time, parts of the industry had recognized the need for stronger competition, and this led to the establishment of SalmoBreed in 2001.
The initiative was driven by competing companies sharing a common vision: for the industry to develop, “we must collaborate where we can – and compete where we must».
The shift started, driven by Bjørg M. Holmefjord Antonsen (AS Bolaks), Morten Rye (Akvaforsk Genetic Center), and Erik Osland (Osland Havbruk), who saw an opportunity to lift the entire sector.
Rather than emerging in a vacuum, SalmoBreed was built on a strong and well-established Norwegian environment in applied research and breeding working together with experienced salmon egg producers. It was raised from a culture where competing suppliers cooperated for common goals rather than individual success. The ambition was to create a relevant alternative in the market, for the benefit of fish farmers and the aquaculture industry as a whole.
What followed was more than just a new company. The founder’s initiative became a turning point that intensified competition and helped raise standards across the entire industry.
The story of SalmoBreed’s establishment reminds us of something fundamental: progress in aquaculture has always been driven by people willing to challenge the market together.
