Bayou Best Foods has announced the acquisition of BettaF!sh, a Berlin-based seaweed innovation company, in a move designed to scale the presence of plant-based seafood alternatives across North America and Europe.
The transaction combines the complementary strengths of two women-led brands to accelerate the commercialisation of seaweed and plant-based seafood products.
The acquisition aims to leverage the specific regional expertise of both companies. BettaF!sh brings established retail and foodservice relationships within Europe, alongside its focus on seaweed-based innovation. Bayou Best Foods contributes its wide-reaching distribution network in the United States and operational experience in the plant-based shrimp category.
"Our goal has always been to bring ocean-friendly seafood to more people, and BettaF!sh is a partner that makes that possible," said Kelli Wilson, CEO of Bayou Best Foods. "We see enormous potential in what we can build together."
Deniz Ficicioglu, founder and CEO of BettaF!sh, added that the merger aligns with both companies' shared focus on sustainability and product development. "By joining forces, we can move faster, reach more customers, and help shape the future of seafood together."
Operational Integration and Expansion
Following the acquisition, the combined entity will implement a cross-market distribution strategy:
Bayou Best Foods’ plant-based shrimp will be introduced to BettaF!sh's existing foodservice partners across Europe.
BettaF!sh’s plant-based tuna and salmon alternatives will be rolled out across Bayou Best Foods’ U.S. distribution network over time.
This integration is intended to diversify the combined company's product portfolio, providing U.S. and European operators with a broader selection of plant-based seafood options. By combining ingredient innovation with established commercial infrastructure, the company aims to strengthen its position as a supplier in the global ocean-friendly seafood market.
Bayou Best Foods’ current U.S. distribution includes partnerships with major foodservice suppliers such as Sysco, US Foods, and PFG. The integration of BettaF!sh is expected to allow the company to build on these existing channels while capitalising on the growing demand for sustainable seafood alternatives.
.jpeg)
.jpeg)
.jpeg)