Frederik Langehaug will continue as Managing Director following the merger of Artec Aqua and VAQ.
Photo: Artec Aqua
Two Norwegian aquaculture service companies, Artec Aqua and VAQ, are set to merge in a move aimed at strengthening their position in the industry. Both companies are wholly owned subsidiaries of Endúr ASA, which announced the planned merger on Monday.
“The combined entity will bring together the complementary strengths of both organizations to create a stronger, more competitive player in the aquaculture industry,” Endúr stated in a press release.
Under the proposal, Artec Aqua will absorb VAQ, with the merger to be finalised once approved at upcoming general meetings. The combined business will continue operating from its existing locations in Ålesund and Asker, maintaining its two-department structure to focus separately on hybrid and RAS operations.
The MD of Artec Aqua, Fredrik Langehaug, who joined the firm last year, will remain as managing director of the merged company, Endúr confirmed.
The merger is expected to be completed by the end of the fourth quarter of 2025. Until then, both firms will continue to operate independently while preparing for integration
Endúr said the merger is designed to streamline operations, align systems and processes, and unlock cost savings. According to the company, the integrated organisation will harmonise contract structures, pricing and risk frameworks, while also offering a single point of contact for customers seeking technology-independent solutions.
Langehaug described the deal as “an important milestone” for both companies. "By combining our expertise, capacity, and resources, we are positioning VAQ and Artec Aqua as a stronger and more capable partner for our customers, suppliers, and employees," he stated.
“We at VAQ are very excited about this merger and the opportunities it creates,” said Sondre Høidalen, Managing Director of VAQ. “I look forward to contributing actively in the merged company, with a strong focus on business development and new opportunities within the group. By joining forces with Artec Aqua, we are building an even stronger platform to deliver value, innovation, and sustainable growth for our customers and the industry.”
“As the owner of both Artec Aqua and VAQ, Endúr strongly supports this merger. We are confident that the merged company will be even better equipped to serve the aquaculture industry, with greater scale, innovation, and a strengthened market presence,” added Jeppe Raaholt, CEO of Endúr.
