OSLO, NORWAY: SalMar has entered into an agreement to acquire 45% ownership in Refsnes Laks AS through a combination of share purchase and private placement. The purchase price for the transaction is NOK 665 million.

Refsnes Laks AS currently has four licenses for production of Atlantic salmon and a time limited viewing license in Central Norway, in total 3,932 tonnes MAB.

Chairman of the board of Refsnes Laks, Ivar Refsnes emphasizes that for many years a close and value-creating collaboration has been developed between SalMar and Refsnes. This applies to production, processing and sales in an international market.

SalMar’s acquisition of a significant ownership interest in the company is a natural continuation of this collaboration. It will strengthen the financial basis for the company with its base in Åfjord municipality. This is a good solution for both parties, says Refsnes.

The transaction gives SalMar further sustainable growth in the immediate vicinity of existing fish farming areas in Central Norway and it will be a good industrial solution that ensures significant synergies and further development of existing activity and operational competence.

The completion of the transaction is conditional upon that the Norwegian Competition Authorities does not intervene against the transaction. www.salmar.no