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maximize the utilization of data collected during processing. “We are continuously improving and innovating, and we’re investing significant time and energy in creating integrated solutions that include hardware, software, and services,” says Sigurðarson. “There are tremendous opportunities in transforming data from processing equipment into value-added information to enhance efficiency, quality, and profit margins. This is one of the key areas we’re emphasizing.”

Staying ahead of the curve

Marel’s advanced technology includes intelligent processing machines and systems, innovative robotic technology, and production, logistics and performance management software with the largest installed base in the industry. These critical components of successful seafood processing operations are designed to address the challenges faced by clients and meet their evolving needs.

Sigurðarson shared some of the challenges that they see in the industry today. High employee turnover on the processing floor at their clients, as well as physically demanding jobs and those that require a lot of precision over a long period of time, are some of the biggest challenges. Marel Fish emphasizes that their product range can solve the physically difficult tasks, such as lifting and moving heavy objects. They also emphasize that their machines show more precision and consistency than the human hand in order to increase utilization, performance and quality of the end product.

“We prioritize our clients’ challenges in our development process, and our close relationships with customers are essential to our success,” says Sigurðarson. “We are grateful for the good cooperation we have had. Through this cooperation, we can ensure that our solutions and products solve real problems.”

Securing sustainability

At the heart of Marel Fish’s success is its commitment to sustainability and innovation. The company is constantly exploring new ways to improve its products and services, taking into account the needs of the industry and the impact of its solutions on the environment. For example, Marel Fish is a leading provider of filleting machines that reduce waste and improve yield, allowing processors to maximize the value of their catch.

“We strive to meet our customers’ demands for sustainable products in several ways,” explains Sigurðarson. “Our product development and portfolio undergo rigorous sustainability assessments to ensure resource conservation, such as reducing water and electricity usage while maintaining exceptional quality, which is crucial in regions where these resources are scarce and costly.”

Digital transformation

Amidst crisis, opportunities arise. According to industry experts, the pace of development has been unprecedented in recent years, with the Covid pandemic serving as a catalyst for change. As Sigurðarson puts it, “The epidemic forced us to think outside the box and find new ways to serve our customers. We had to pivot quickly to remote support and find innovative ways to offer virtual services, such as utilizing virtual reality and other digital tools. Ultimately, it made us stronger and more efficient in the long run as we also worked closely with our customers to revamp our service contracts to prioritize efficiency and minimize travel.”

While the pandemic brought many challenges, it also spurred muchneeded progress and growth in the sector. “The most exciting thing in my opinion is how we are moving towards our solutions becoming a platform that we can develop further with software updates that focus on improved utilization, new cutting patterns or increased information to support improved operations and decision-making,” explains Sigurðarson.

Expanding product portfolio

Marel successfully closed two acquisitions during Covid. On November 19th, 2021, the company acquired Valka ehf., an Icelandic provider of innovative fish processing solutions. Following that, on February 1st, 2022, Marel closed the acquisition of Curio, a primary processing equipment provider for whitefish processing. According to Sigurðarson, the acquisitions have been a great success. “With the purchase of these two innovative companies, we’ve added to our previous product range, as well as bringing in a lot of very talented and experienced people,” he says. “It certainly takes time to integrate the companies into one activity, but the impact that customers who own Curio and Valka equipment will feel is that there is a larger network supporting the solutions.”

Highlights of new applications

Marel Fish is set to present their latest and most advanced solutions for the fish processing industry at the upcoming Seafood Expo Global in Barcelona. Their range of equipment, including filleting machines, grading systems and gutting machines, will be on display both onsite and through live streaming demos on a big screen. According to Sigurðarson, the company will be showcasing a new generation of a salmon filleting machine that offers previously unseen improvements in utilization.

“We put a lot of effort into the show experience and care that our customers enjoy themselves,” says Sigurðarson. “We will have an open kitchen, bar, lounge for conversations and meetings, as well as streaming product presentations. Attendees can expect live demonstrations of Marel Fish’s state-of-the-art technology, as well as the chance to meet with experts who will be on hand to discuss their products and services.”

Connect, configure, control

Along with their hardware solutions, Marel Fish will also present their software solutions that help automate the production process and provide real-time data analysis. Marel’s digital undertaking is transforming the industry as it moves towards enhanced software offerings built on a their tried and tested digital platform. “By deploying these digital solutions, fish processors are able to interconnect factory equipment, making it effortless to configure, easy to control and fully manageable through a cloud-based infrastructure,” says Sigurðarson. “Today, the most important part of our digital approach is full connectivity of every single aspect of processing. Every part of the value chain will be connected, from ground operations to management decision making”

It is evident that Marel Fish’s innovative solutions are designed to help processors and producers streamline their operations and increase productivity, while maintaining the highest standards of food safety and sustainability. With its innovative solutions and commitment to quality, Marel Fish is poised to continue to play a leading role in shaping the future of the seafood processing industry.