Four years ago, AKVA group had to take decisive action to turn around its land-based operations. Customers were dissatisfied, and the company was losing money. The solution was a major restructuring, shifting AKVA group from a contractor-based supplier to an industrial player with stronger core expertise, scientifically documented technology, and a more sustainable business model. Today, the results are clear.

“We have turned things around. We’ve made significant improvements across multiple areas and now deliver proven solutions that ensure good fish health and optimal operations. This makes land-based farming more profitable and predictable. Our customers are satisfied,” says Siri Tømmerås, Commercial Director at AKVA group.

Documented solutions are essential for achieving strong results in post-smolt facilities - a strategy that has already demonstrated success in sea-based farming.

Lower mortality

Extending the on-land phase reduces both biological costs and sea lice infestations. AKVA group has seen tangible results in collaboration with fish farmers. Hiddenfjord in the Faroe Islands has been at the forefront of this development, continuously refining the technology in partnership with AKVA group. Several farmers in Norway also report positive outcomes with a post-smolt strategy, including fewer delousing treatments and lower mortality rates (source: iLaks).

AKVA groupSiri Tømmerås at AKVA group. Photo: AKVA group

“Larger smolt spend less time at sea, reducing the risk of lice and other disease-causing microorganisms. Our experience shows that while keeping fish on land is more expensive, these costs are quickly recovered through lower biological costs and higher survival rates at sea. Additionally, a large-smolt strategy allows for better utilization of the maximum allowed biomass (MTB),” says Tømmerås.

Why choose AKVA group?

AKVA group’s technology ensures optimal water quality and stable RAS operations, giving farmers full control over water conditions, biomass, and fish health—with documented results. Our systems enable sustainable smolt production with complete monitoring.

Join our webinar on 4 April, where we will share insights from recent R&D projects and discuss the future of fish health and sustainability. Sign up here (in Norwegian). 

Training and advisory services

To ensure fish farmers get the most out of the technology, AKVA group provides training and guidance through its Production Advisory Services (PAS)-team.

AKVA groupFull control of the facility. Photo: AKVA group

"Our collaboration with fish farmers has strengthened, and we see a growing recognition of the value of guidance and training. We work in a respectful manner without disrupting daily routines while adapting to their expertise, which is invaluable for optimal operations," says Tømmerås.

Better results through documentation and research

AKVA group heavily invests in research and development to optimize operations and ensure the best possible fish health. The company has a team of specialists and researchers working closely with customers to document how various factors affect fish performance in both land-based and sea-based phases.

Hiddenfjord in the Faroe Islands is one of the industry leaders in large-smolt production to reduce exposure to sea lice.

“We grow our smolt at low temperatures to produce a more robust fish. This strengthens the smolt for the transition to seawater and improves long-term growth,” says Atli Gregersen, Director at Hiddenfjord, a pioneer in post-smolt production.

Sustainable solutions for the future of aquaculture

AKVA group continues to develop new solutions in collaboration with fish farmers. By combining technology, research, and experience, the company has positioned itself as a leading player in land-based aquaculture and post-smolt production.

“We have learned a lot from the challenges of recent years and have emerged stronger. The future of land-based farming looks promising, and we are ready to take the lead in its development,” concludes Tømmerås.