In the early 1980s, Acadian Seaplants Limited (ASL) began as a family-run business operating out of Nova Scotia. With small beginnings came big rewards. More than 28 years later, this bioscience company is now the largest independent manufacturer of seaweed-based specialty products of its type in the world.
ASL specializes in technology-based manufacturing of natural, specialty fertilizers, feed, food, food ingredients and brewery supplies originating from select species of marine plants.
Guided by its four key business units - plant science, animal science, food science, and specialty ingredients divisions - the company handles all levels of production. ASL’s impeccable standards for excellence are enforced at every step of in every operation. Its superior quality starts with the initial and sustainable harvesting of raw materials and carries throughout processing, manufacturing, packaging, delivery and technical customer support.
From harvesting and cultivating seaplants to resource management, technology development, manufacturing and quality control, ASL handles its global business right here in Nova Scotia. The company based its headquarters in Dartmouth, and also has five major manufacturing facilities set up near cultivation and harvesting sites throughout Atlantic Canada supported by a research center in Cornwallis, Nova Scotia.
The company’s experience and investment in research and development has made Acadian Seaplants a world authority in understanding marine plant physiology and how to process seaweeds without compromising the valuable bio compounds. The company’s expertise and commitment ensures its customers receive only top-quality, performance-proven products every time.
Business Result Achieved: Growth
As an international exporter, ASL recruits new Canadians who can share their expertise on international market opportunities, provide insight on cultural barriers and contribute to the company’s overall international growth. Although ASL is an experienced exporter, the company has used Nova Scotia Business Inc.’s trade programs such as ExportAbility and Export Prospector Program to equip themselves with formal training in the international trade industry and to further explore new markets. It’s because of this out-of-box recruitment and employee engagement that ASL received the 2006 Nova Scotia Export Achievement Award - Export Growth Through New MarketsWith innovative minds working together, new market opportunities taking shape and product demand rising, it is no wonder ASL is growing at a rapid pace – and the company shows no signs of slowing down.
To learn more about the company, please visit www.acadianseaplants.com.