The Kingfish Company

The Kingfish Company is a pioneer in sustainable land-based aquaculture, specializing in the production of yellowtail kingfish (Seriola lalandi). Founded in 2018, the company operates a recirculating aquaculture system (RAS) facility in Zeeland, Netherlands, which has recently expanded its annual production capacity from 1,500 tonnes to 3,500 tonnes. The company utilizes advanced RAS technology to raise yellowtail kingfish in a controlled environment, allowing for year-round production without the use of antibiotics or vaccines.

The Kingfish Company's production process is designed with sustainability in mind, using renewable energy sources such as wind, solar, and biogas to power its operations. The facility employs seawater throughout the production cycle, minimizing freshwater usage. In 2022, the company achieved a record production of 1,511 tonnes of net growth and total sales volume of 1,438 tonnes. The Kingfish Company's products are marketed under the Dutch Yellowtail brand and have gained recognition for their quality and sustainability, earning certifications from organizations such as the Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC), Best Aquaculture Practices (BAP), and British Retail Consortium (BRC).

In January 2024, The Kingfish Company completed the second phase of its expansion in the Netherlands, enhancing its total production capacity to 3,500 tonnes. The company reported that the biological performance of the new farm exceeded expectations. As of Q4 2023, the standing biomass at the facility more than doubled year-on-year to 967 tonnes. The company aims to operate at full capacity by 2025, with harvest volumes expected to increase starting from the first quarter of 2024.

Key customers and partnerships

The Kingfish Company serves various markets across Europe and North America, catering to both the HORECA (hotel, restaurant, and catering) sector and retail channels. In recent years, the company has successfully pivoted to increase its presence in the retail market, signing deals with leading retail chains in France and Italy. As of 2021, the company reported an almost 50/50 split between HORECA and retail sales, with the flexibility to adjust this ratio based on market conditions.

The company has partnered with top wholesalers and purveyors worldwide for distribution, expanding its customer base across existing and new markets. In January 2024, The Kingfish Company appointed a new commercial director, Gudo klein Gebbink, to drive the expansion of its customer base and boost sales across both existing and new markets. The company's yellowtail kingfish has gained popularity among world-renowned chefs, establishing The Kingfish Company as a trusted partner in the culinary industry.