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Case

Expanding Seafood Market in the Nordic Region operations through Denmark

Japanese seafood leader Kyokuyo is expanding its presence in Northern Europe through its subsidiary Kyokuyo Europe B.V., which has entered into an agreement to acquire a 90% stake in Engelsviken Canning Denmark A/S a long-established seafood processor located in Skagen, Denmark. The acquisition will strengthen Kyokuyo’s Nordic sales network and accelerate its global expansion efforts.
When 06.01.2026
What
Food

A leading Japanese seafood company with growing global ambition

Kyokuyo is one of Japan’s most established seafood companies, handling everything from procurement to processing and sales. As part of its medium-term plan “Gear Up Kyokuyo to 2027”, the company is strengthening its overseas operations after acquiring seafood businesses in the Netherlands and Turkey in 2024.

With the acquisition of Engelsviken Canning Denmark A/S - alongside sister company Engelsviken Norway A/S (EN) - Kyokuyo gains a strong foothold in the Nordic region. The Engelsviken brand, founded in 1867, is widely recognised across Norway, Sweden, and Denmark, with shrimp, crayfish, and canned products distributed in major supermarkets.

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“By becoming part of the Engelsviken Canning Denmark Group, we can expand our sales coverage in the Nordic region and build new synergies with our Dutch and Turkish subsidiaries. The Nordic seafood market is highly attractive, and this investment enables us to respond even better to customer needs,”
Kyokuyo Europe B.V

The acquisition also ensures the continuation of Engelsviken Canning Denmark’s operations as its long-time owner reaches retirement age, maintaining 15 skilled jobs in Skagen.

Why Denmark? A world-class seafood hub

Denmark is a global leader in wild catch fishing, aquaculture, seafood processing, and sustainability technologies. As the EU’s largest seafood exporter, Denmark imports from more than 90 countries and exports to over 115 markets, making it one of the world’s most dynamic seafood trade hubs.

Strong framework conditions, a stable business environment, cutting-edge maritime research, and efficient logistics create an ideal platform for seafood companies seeking European or global expansion.

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“Japan and Denmark are both island nations with long fishing traditions. Kyokuyo’s investment not only strengthens its European operations, it deepens the ties between our two countries. Denmark’s seafood industry is globally recognized for innovation and sustainability, and we warmly welcome Kyokuyo into this ecosystem.”
Vanessa Vega Saenz Director, Invest in Denmark 

How Invest in Denmark supported the process

Invest in Denmark has been in dialogue with Kyokuyo throughout the evaluation phase. While not part of the M&A negotiations, Invest in Denmark provided:

  • Key insights into Denmark’s fisheries ecosystem and regulatory landscape

  • Information on Danish framework conditions and local industry structures

  • Benchmarking and background on market competitiveness

  • Verification of accountants and lawyers involved in the process

  • Access to Invest in Denmark’s Service Provider Catalogue to identify trusted local partners


This support helped Kyokuyo gain a clear understanding of the Danish seafood sector and proceed confidently with the investment.

 
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“Invest in Denmark provided valuable information and guidance that helped us understand the Danish fisheries industry and its business environment. Their support was instrumental as we evaluated this important strategic decision.”
Kyokuyo Europe B.V.

Get in touch Want to know more about the Danish food industry?

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