Green investor acquires aquaculture database provider Kontali

Norwegian ‘green’ investor Arendals Fossekompani has taken a controlling stake in aquaculture knowledge specialist Kontali Analyse. The move is a first step to building a global powerhouse for big data in the aquaculture sector.
Founded in Kristiansund, Norway, in 1987, Kontali has served as the leading knowledge-based consultancy and data provider for the Norwegian fish farming industry, collecting production data, establishing the first production and market simulation models, and developing the salmon database.
Arendals Fossekompani, which has taken a 71% stake in Kontali, is a Norwegian investment company focused on green technology in the energy sector and other fields. Its latest acquisition coincides with the launch of Arendals’ new wholly-owned subsidiary, Alytic, which seeks to develop data-driven companies that support specific industries into global players.
Lars Liabø, founder and chairman of Kontali said: “We are excited to have Arendals Fossekompani become the majority shareholder. Supported by the digital competence and financial capabilities of AFK, Kontali will be able to accelerate the digital transformation of the company and strengthen an already leading position within aquaculture and fisheries.”
The move opens the way for Kontali to focus resources on big data analytics, advanced product development and an extended offering on species and geographies.
Earlier this month Kontali completed the acquisition Dutch competitor Seafood TIP BV, based in Utrecht.
Morten Henriksen, executive vice president of Arendals Fossekompani said: “Kontali is a well-run company with dedicated professionals, who have built a leading position over three decades. In a global and increasingly data-savvy market, it is vital that Kontali accelerates the technology shift to capitalize on the expertise within the company. Arendals Fossekompani is a perfect match, with a proven track-record of developing data-driven companies through a Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) business model that facilitates fast global growth.”