Holmøy Group: Celebrating a Proud Tradition from Norway’s Arctic Waters

Explore the deep-rooted heritage of seafood in Norway with Fish Focus’ latest publication.

Sortland: A Community Shaped by the Sea

Sortland, Norway – Located along the stunning Arctic coastline, the town of Sortland is a vibrant community where life is deeply entwined with the sea. Here, fishing extends beyond mere economics; it embodies a rich cultural legacy passed down through generations. At the forefront of this esteemed tradition is Holmøy Group, established in 1973, which has emerged as Norway’s largest family-owned fishing enterprise.

Connecting with the UK: A Glimpse into Seafood Origins

Holmøy, a proud member of the Norwegian Frozen at Sea group, recently hosted the winners of the prestigious 2025 National Fish & Chip Awards. This event provided a unique opportunity for them to witness the journey of the fish that captivates diners across the UK. One of the highlights was a voyage aboard the cutting-edge frozen-at-sea vessel, Langøy – illustrating Norway’s commitment to quality, sustainability, and seafood innovation.

Tradition Meets Modernity

“For generations, the sea has been the heart of life in this region,” says Knut Holmøy, CEO of Holmøy Group. “We are proud to carry on that tradition – harvesting premium, sustainably caught seafood from the cold, clear waters of Norway.”

From Arctic Waters to British Plates

Norway’s contribution to the UK’s fish and chip industry has been substantial, with high-quality whitefish forming the essence of this beloved British dish. Holmøy Group takes pride in its role within this supply chain, offering frozen-at-sea fillets that lock in the freshness and flavor of the catch.

“The freshness and quality of the fillets we process is absolutely essential,” Holmøy reiterates. “It’s a cornerstone of our offerings.”

Strengthening Ties with the UK Market

The UK is one of Holmøy’s key markets. Through collaborative initiatives like the annual National Fish & Chip Awards, Holmøy continues to partner with local organizations, including the Norwegian Seafood Council (NSC), to fortify its enduring connection with the iconic fish and chip sector.

Commitment to Sustainability

For Holmøy, sustainability is not merely a trend; it serves as a foundational principle. The company’s fleet, which includes the Langøy, employs state-of-the-art technology aimed at ensuring responsible fishing practices while minimizing environmental impact. Holmøy Group is resolutely dedicated to preserving healthy fish stocks and safeguarding the marine ecosystem for future generations.

“Fish is our passion – it’s more than just our slogan,” Holmøy states. “It’s the heart of everything we do.”

A Journey from Sea to Plate

By inviting the National Fish & Chip Awards winners aboard, Holmøy sought to create a connection between the ocean and the dining experience. This initiative allowed award-winning fish and chip operators to appreciate the diligence involved in the harvesting of every fillet.

“We wanted them to see our vessels and understand how the food they serve is produced,” Holmøy explains. “With current focus on environmental and sustainability issues, it’s vital that they recognize the significance of frozen-at-sea operations and the effort behind crafting high-quality products.”

Celebrating Shared Values

This visit transcended mere observation; it symbolized a mutual celebration of values. Both Holmøy Group and the UK’s champions of fish and chips share a keen passion for high-quality seafood.

As Holmøy puts it, “We’ve witnessed your dedication to fish and chips, and we’re proud to be a trusted supplier to the UK market.”