Skretting has promoted its general manager for France to a new position set up to drive forward the aquaculture feed heavyweight's work in alternative farming technologies.

Charlie Granfelt will step up to become global manager for closed aquaculture systems after 12 years with the company.

The appointment comes at a time of increasing Atlantic salmon output from alternative farming technologies, which is expected to grow to 200,000 metric tons by 2030.

“I’m excited to work with the existing global team working at Skretting to deliver the best value proposition to our customers in this segment," said Granfelt.

"We are mobilizing our global competence, and organizing to meet the market needs in a way that is structured and efficient.”

While much attention has been given to the growth of land-based salmon facilities, the position is not limited to the salmon sector, nor recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS).

“Although growout salmon in RAS is dominating at the moment, we also see that other species like shrimp, kingfish, barramundi, tilapia and catfish are showing signs of moving into new technologies to complement traditional farming," said Granfelt.

"This further strengthens our drive as we are a global company and we can commit locally to projects whether they’re located in Japan, the United States, China or Europe. Our ongoing local competence is valuable from day one."

Granfelt has over 30 years experience in sales and marketing, including 20 years in senior leadership positions. He has worked for Skretting for 12 years, eight as sales director in Norway and four years as general manager of Skretting France.

“If we want to ensure that there is enough seafood to meet ever-increasing demand, our industry and new technology is critical," said Skretting CEO Therese Log Bergjord.

"It’s not a case of and/or, it’s a case of and/and/and. At Skretting, we are embracing all new methods to ensure we can continue to meet demand in a sustainable way. The development of land-based and closed systems is a key strategic area for Skretting moving forward.”