Fortifi adds Canadian producer of crustacean processing equipment to portfolio
Fortifi Food Processing Solutions has completed the acquisition of Area 52, a Canadian company involved in automated crustacean processing, particularly patented solutions for lobster and crab production.
Massimo Bizzi, chief executive officer of Fortifi said Area 52’s machine designs increase worker safety, protein quality and processing yields.
“As an industry partner, Area 52 provides valuable automation capabilities to a growing crustacean and seafood market at a time when labor shortages challenge traditional harvesting processes,” Massimo Bizzi noted. “With this acquisition, we further expand our solution set to drive growth and innovation in food categories with global reach and application.”
Located in Moncton, New Brunswick, Area 52 offers a strong portfolio of proprietary and patented equipment and technology for automated washing, netting, scoring/cutting, and butchering. These automated systems enable processors to complete full lines including packaging, pick-and-place robots and material handling to provide strong manufacturing ROI’s from animal harvesting to final customer shipment.
“We welcome this opportunity to grow within the Fortifi family and expand our global reach,” said Tim Fogarty, founder of Area 52. “We share Fortifi’s dedication to innovative, customer-centered product design and service.”
All Area 52 employees will join Fortifi’s broad-based ownership program, which provides employees with the opportunity to participate in the benefits of equity ownership.
