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INVE Aquaculture marks 35 years in industry

INVE Aquaculture, Benchmark’s Advanced Nutrition division, recently celebrated 35 years of service to the aquaculture industry.

As a result of a spin-off of Gent University in Belgium, INVE Aquaculture was set up to to pursue the development of early life feeds, including Artemia – an essential feed that has driven the growth of marine shrimp and hatchery fish around the world.

In observance of its 35th anniversary, INVE announced it has achieved 24 per cent market share in the global shrimp and marine fish hatchery nutrition segment and now operates in more than 70 countries.

At a series of events held around the world to mark the anniversary, company executives outlined their vision for the future, which will largely focus on developing holistic solutions for sustainably, improving fry quality and using microbial management and other health solutions to overcome disease outbreaks.

“Innovation is how we started and, in this fast-growing industry, innovation in partnership with our customers is the way to keep driving sustainable growth in the industry, and to stay ahead of the competition,” said Philippe Léger, CEO of INVE Aquaculture, in a statement.

The chief executive also announced he will be stepping down from his post as CEO and as managing director of Benchmark’s Advanced Nutrition. Benchmark’s group legal counsel Athene Blakeman will be taking over the role. Just turning 65 years old, Léger will be working part-time supporting the development and execution of Benchmark’s key strategic initiatives and continue to play an integral role in the future growth and development of Benchmark, the company explained.

“During my time as CEO I have had the privilege of working with truly talented, innovative and inspiring people across the global aquaculture industry,” Léger said. “I am thrilled Athene is taking on my responsibilities as CEO. I have every confidence she will continue to build on our achievements throughout the next phase of growth and I look forward to working with her as I continue to lead the Benchmark Strategy Execution and Business Growth team supporting the Groups’ key strategic priorities and new business developments.”

Blakeman joined Benchmark in 2014 as group legal counsel and has gained in-depth knowledge and insight across the group, being a member of Benchmark’s PLC and Operations Boards, as well as each of the divisional boards, including Advanced Nutrition.

“The success Philippe has experienced building INVE Aquaculture into the company it is today is testament to his dedication, drive and passion for aquaculture. I look forward to working closely with him and our teams across the business in the coming months to ensure the smoothest possible transition for our customers and partners,” Blakeman said.