Permira’s recent acquisition of a 50 percent stake in Taiwanese aquafeed giant Grobest will provide expertise to help the company expand its brand across international markets, Grobest spokesperson Jennifer Kuo told IntraFish at the Taiwan Fisheries & Seafood Show in Kaohsiung, Wednesday.

Kuo declined to comment on where these new markets might be, but did say there would be a definite focus on growth in shrimp and “high value marine species."

The 45-year-old company had been looking to grow globally and seemed ready for a public listing, when Permira knocked on the door 18 months ago and presented a new solution to Grobest's aggressive expansion plans.

"Permira is very aquaculture-focused," said Kuo. Indeed, this is the private equity firm's third foray into the sector, with past investments in animal health group Pharmaq -- now owned by Zoetis -- and animal feed company Provimi, since acquired by Cargill.

The acquisition will bring a new management team -- which will be announced in the next couple of weeks -- made up of recognizable industry names, according to Kuo.

But the root of Grobest’s strength will remain in place with minimal change to the management structure of the company’s research & development, said Kuo.

“We are happy with this relationship and to have this new management on board to help us become a global leader in the industry,” said Kuo.

“We look forward to changing in a good way. We will grow together with suppliers and customers.”

Aquaculture

Permira acquisition gives Grobest new focus on shrimp and 'high value marine fish'