Pacific Seafood, a US-based business engaged in fishing, processing, and distribution, has recently opened its first European office as a pivotal “gateway” for expansion into the EU.
Headquartered in Clackamas, Oregon, this family-owned company has established its presence in Hamburg, Germany. The new office will be led by Stephan Kleemeyer, as per a recent statement.
Kleemeyer brings extensive experience in the seafood industry, having recently served as managing director for the European operations of Trident Seafoods. In that role, he oversaw the company’s Pickenpack business located in Riepe, Germany.
Ashton Meier, the vice president of processing for Pacific Seafood, confirmed that the company currently supplies both retail and foodservice channels throughout the EU.
“Establishing a physical presence in Europe allows us to better support these customers and continue building long-term partnerships,” he stated.
Meier further emphasized, “While this is Pacific Seafood’s first European location, we actively seek opportunities to invest in vertically integrated fishing, processing, and distribution businesses.”
“These investments will not only strengthen our footprint but also enhance the value proposition and diverse product mix we offer to both customers and consumers,” he added.
Pacific Seafood’s diverse product range includes wild whitefish, coldwater shrimp, salmon, and aquaculture products like steelhead and oysters, alongside value-added options, according to Meier.
Kleemeyer will focus on business development across the EU, aiming to “strengthen partnerships with existing customers and identify growth opportunities,” as outlined in the statement.
“Establishing a permanent presence in Europe is a bold but natural next step in our expanding global footprint,” Meier noted. “Stephan brings deep experience and strong relationships in the region, and we are confident he will help us deliver even greater value to our European partners.”
Founded in 1941 by Frank Dulcich, Pacific Seafood manages all aspects of the supply chain—from harvesting to processing and distribution.
The company has initiated its Mission 31 strategic plan to expand operations by 2031, with Europe now playing a strategic role in that endeavor.
Pacific Seafood announced the project last year, which has already led to unspecified investments in Alaska and Florida.
Late last year, the company acquired the processing assets of Trident Seafoods in Kodiak, Alaska, which includes three plants.
The Kodiak operations are responsible for processing a wide variety of seafood, including halibut, flatfish, rockfish, crab, herring, pollock, salmon, and Pacific cod.