Perth-headquartered US-focused aquaculture company Australis Ltd has announced the resumption of the expansion of its $2.6 million North American barramundi hatchery in Massachusetts.
The expansion of the hatchery and grow-out facility at Turners Falls is due for completion in November, and will expand capacity by 43 per cent, to 1,000 tonnes per annum.
First sales from the expanded facility are expected to occur in February 2007.
The company believes that its expanded customer based and coordinated marketing efforts are creating sufficient demand to support the increased capacity.
Australis is one of a number of WA players active in the barramundi farming business, and is attempting to capitalise on the US's apetite for the unique Australian fish species.
Marine Produce Australia and Cell Aquaculture both have similar 'pond to plate' barramundi growing and harvesting operations.
Australis grow some of its barramundi fingerlings in Australia, before they are flown to the US facility and grown out to full size. Other fingerlings are cultivated at the Turners Falls hatchery.
Australis has established a national wholesale distribution network in the US, and also sells to North American supermarket chains.
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US Barramundi Plant Expansion to 1,000 tpa Resumes
* A$2.6 million expansion due for completion in November 2006
* First harvest the from expanded plant expected in February 2007
* Barramundi sales for May continuing at strong levels
The Directors of Australis are pleased to announce the resumption of the company's
A$2.6 million expansion of its US Turners Falls Barramundi hatchery and grow-out facility
to 1,000 tonnes per annum. This 43% increase in capacity will support continuing sales
growth and take full advantage of the company's existing infrastructure.
Significantly increased sales over the last 90 days have given the Directors confidence
that the company's expanded customer based and coordinated marketing efforts are
creating sufficient demand to support the increased capacity.
Expected completion and stocking of the new facility is scheduled for November 2006.
First sales from the expanded facility are expected to occur in February 2007.
