Pure Salmon to build EU’s largest land-based salmon facility in France

Pure Salmon -- backed by investment group 8F -- has chosen Boulogne-Sur-Mer, France, as the site of its second European operation, which will be the largest land-based salmon facility in the European Union to date.

Construction of the French site will commence in the fourth quarter of this year, with the first harvest of full-grown salmon expected in 2023.

The facility will require $197 million (€177.7 million) worth of capital. The investment group previously reported plans to build a 10,000 metric ton recirculating aquaculture system (RAS) to supply the European market.

The local French government is supporting the project through grants and other forms of financial support. The site is expected to create 160 local jobs.

The company previously stated it was deliberating between France and Italy, but also cited it chose France for being one of the largest salmon consumer bases.

According to the company, Boulogne-sur-Mer is an ideal location due to its extensive transport links to the rest of France as well as neighboring countries. That means the salmon produced could be distributed to a market of around 80 million consumers within a 300-kilometer radius.

“We have chosen France over other European countries because of its long reputation for producing exceptionally high-quality food, the large salmon consumer base and also for the support and assistance we have received from all levels of government in France,” Stephane Farouze, board director of Pure Salmon and chairman and founder of 8F Asset Management, said.

Series of projects

Virginia was the state of choice for 8F Asset Management, due to the proximity to East Coast customers and $20 million (€18 million) financial backing of local authorities and development agencies.