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Michelmores has advised the sellers of Ocean Fish Group, one of the South West’s oldest and most established fishing and processing businesses, on its sale to Falkland Islands-based Fortuna Ltd.
Ocean Fish Group, whose heritage dates back to 1740, has grown into a leading vertically integrated supplier to UK and European retail, wholesale and foodservice markets. Under the Lakeman family’s ownership, the Group has expanded significantly through targeted acquisitions and strategic partnerships, establishing itself as a key player in the sector.
Fortuna, the largest fishing company in the British Overseas Territories, enters the UK fishing market for the first time through this transaction. The acquisition is expected to support Ocean Fish Group’s ambitions for continued growth, strengthened supply-chain resilience and increased access to global markets.
Michelmores advised the sellers on all aspects of the transaction, drawing on its cross-disciplinary expertise and long-standing relationship with the Ocean Fish business. The Michelmores team was led by Partner Henry Taylor with assistance from Managing Associate Chris Smedley, and Associate Ben Adams, both from the Firm’s Corporate team, Corporate Tax Partner Cathy Bryant, Commercial Partner David Thompson and Real Estate Managing Associate Matt Jones.
Leigh Genge, CEO of Ocean Fish, comments:
“Henry and the wider Michelmores team’s support throughout this process has been invaluable. Their understanding of our business, our heritage and our goals helped ensure a smooth and successful transaction as we join forces with Fortuna.”
Henry Taylor added:
“We are proud to have supported Ocean Fish on this landmark transaction for a business with such deep roots and significance within the South West’s fishing industry. This deal marks an exciting chapter for Ocean Fish Group, and we wish the business all the very best as it moves forward.”
Other advisers to the transaction included FRP Advisory and HSBC.
Michelmores’ award-winning Corporate team of specialist lawyers advises clients across the UK, US and beyond – on capital markets, mergers and acquisitions, management buyouts, impact investing, energy projects, microfinance initiatives and more. Read more on our website.