News / Blueshell expands with company takeover
BRAE based aquaculture business Blueshell Mussels has completed the takeover of mussel farm company SI Seafarms as it expands its portfolio in Shetland.
Blueshell has added 15 sea leases and around 1,500 tonnes of mussel growing capacity after acquiring the firm, which has a number of sites on the Westside.
However, it will largely be business as usual as Blueshell has been managing SI’s sites since 2010.
Blueshell managing director Michael Laurenson said the family-owned company, formed in 2007 and now the largest rope-grown mussel producer in the UK, is “bucking the trend” by investing in the local industry.
He will now become the managing director of SI, while its business address will move to Sparl in Brae.
“We have, since 2010, been carrying out the practical operations for SI Seafarms, Shetland on behalf of its UK shareholders,” Laurenson said.
“We have now fulfilled our long term aspirations to purchase this successful business and ensure the long-term security of our workforce.
“By operating the business in tandem with Blueshell, we look forward to achieving significant efficiencies and benefits in the future.”
SI operates largely in the west of Shetland in Walls, Aith, Clift Sound, Weisdale and Tresta, while it also owns two sites on the east side.
The company’s chief executive David Fell said the sale of the business was in the “best interests” for all concerned.
“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,” he said.
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