Shetland-based Blueshell Mussels acquires SI Seafarms

Brae, Scotland-based Blueshell Mussels has expanded its growing capacity after taking ownership of SI Seafarms, located in the Shetland Islands.

The takeover will give Blueshell Mussels an additional 1,500 metric tons of growing capacity, according to the Shetland Times.

“The sale of the business to Blueshell is in the best interests of SI Seafarms and its shareholders. Under Blueshell’s control, SI Seafarms will continue to thrive, support jobs in Shetland, and supply an increased quantity of quality mussels to its customers,” SI SEafarms Executive Chairman David Fell said.

Blueshell Mussels, which is family-owned, produces mussels and scallops sold through the Scottish Shellfish Marketing Group. Its purchase of SI Seafarms’ 15 leases gives the company more than 50 sites it uses for year-round mussel farming.

“We have, since 2010, been carrying out the practical operations for SI Seafarms, Shetland on behalf of its U.K. shareholders. We have now fulfilled our long-term aspirations to purchase this successful business and ensure the long term security of our workforce,” Blueshell Mussels Managing Director Michael Laurenson said.

Following the acquisition, Laurenson has been named managing director of SI Seafarms, which has relocated its business address to Sparl in Brae.

“We are pleased to be bucking the trend of recent years, where ownership of many Shetland aquaculture sites has left the islands. By operating the business in tandem with Blueshell, we look forward to achieving significant efficiencies and benefits in the future.”

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