Mikkel Flom Pedersen, Founder Probotic AS and Michelle Opshaug, CEO Probotic AS
ScaleAQ
ScaleAQ, one of the world’s largest providers of technology, advanced solutions, and systems for the aquaculture industry, has confirmed its intention to acquire Probotic AS, a Norwegian startup that offers solutions for the autonomous inspection and cleaning of fish farming net pens at sea.
In this way, ScaleAQ expands its product portfolio by prioritizing the relationship between float collars, fishing nets, and the cleaning process, while also strengthening its presence in Northern Norway, where Probotic is headquartered.
Regarding this acquisition, ScaleAQ CEO Audun Fjeldvær said: "For the technology to produce optimal results, it is very important that the net is adapted to the robot cleaner, and the robot cleaner is adapted to the net. It is this interaction that ensures a clean and safe net and thus the best environment for the fish."
Additionally, General Manager Sigurd Flaat Liljefjell at ScaleAQ Seabased noted: "We are impressed by the expertise, technology, and enthusiasm of the team at Probotic. This is a company with a clear purpose and a solution that fits well with our solutions for fish farmers. The washing robot the company has developed provides better fish welfare, higher efficiency, better hygiene, a safer working environment, and more predictable operations."
Probotic was founded by Mikkel Pedersen in 2019 and launched its first model, Probot 1.0, in 2024. Thanks to the cleaning it provides, water quality and fish appetite are improved. Additionally, it helps detect holes and wear in advance to prevent escapes.
CEO Michelle Opshaug and Pedersen Probotic will remain shareholders in the company and will gain access to additional financial and human resources, allowing them to focus on product development, marketing, and the operation of the systems.
"Probotic has developed a strong solution, but sees that industrial ownership can increase the company's potential for commercial success. ScaleAQ is the right partner to take Probotic to the next level," concluded Nicolai Haugland, Chairman of the Board of Olaisen Blue Rogn AS, on behalf of the sellers.
