Abyss is headquartered in Kristiansund and has established a presence from Haugesund in the south to Alta in the north.
In a short time, Abyss has grown from a regional provider in Sund to a national and international player in aquaculture and subsea services, with a vision to combine local roots with global presence. Today, they are a key contributor to the aquaculture industry, both above and below the surface, operating one of Norway’s largest fleets of workboats and advanced ROVs (remotely operated vehicles).
– It started in Sund, but today we operate nationwide and have assignments internationally. We’re quite proud of that," says Victor Jensen, CEO of Abyss.
It’s easy to see why. The Abyss fleet is in constant motion, from maintaining cages and installations to diving operations that ensure fish welfare and prevent escapes. Divers carefully inspect the nets for damage, while ROV pilots navigate advanced underwater vehicles through deep fjords to repair installations and keep fish farms in top condition.
– We do everything you can imagine for fish farmers. We ensure the fish have good conditions, free from sea lice and in safe surroundings. In addition, we also work with the energy market and underwater installations there," explains Jensen.
The head office is located in Kristiansund, and the company has established a presence from Haugesund in the south to Alta in the north – in addition to increasing activity in Iceland, which has helped to position Abyss as a significant player. In just three years, they have doubled in size, acquired several companies and vessels, and strengthened their position as a leading operator.
Abyss’s rapid growth has also brought challenges, particularly in terms of financial management and capital handling.
– We manage substantial assets, and our growth made it necessary to professionalise our financial management. We were looking for a partner with both local insight and broad professional expertise, and BDO became a natural choice," says Arnt Mundal, CFO of Abyss.
When Abyss sought collaboration with BDO, they were in the middle of a growth phase with clear acquisition targets and a need for capital.
– We were able to offer both audit and financial advisory services that supported their growth ambitions. It has been rewarding to follow Abyss’s journey, from acquisitions to international expansion," says Toril Ulfsnes, Partner and Head of BDO Nordmøre.
From left: Toril Ulfsnes, Partner and Head of BDO Nordmøre, Arnt Mundal, CFO of Abyss, and Victor Jensen, CEO of Abyss.
Ulfsnes describes the collaboration as close and goal-oriented:
– Abyss had clear goals and knew where they were heading, which made it easier to assist them in building a financial structure capable of supporting growth.
Although Abyss has grown far beyond Central Norway, the company remains proud of its roots in Kristiansund.
– At the same time, Abyss has distinguished itself as an innovative player, with a focus on sustainability and local engagement. In 2020, they were named 'Value Creator of the Year', an award recognising their ability to create jobs and contribute to regional development.
At the same time, Abyss has distinguished itself as an innovative player, with a focus on sustainability and local engagement. In 2020, they were named 'Value Creator of the Year', an award recognising their ability to create jobs and contribute to regional development.
Thanks to solid support from BDO, including strategic advice, auditing, and local expertise, Abyss is now better equipped than ever to face future challenges.
– BDO has been an invaluable supporter during our growth phase. We look forward to continuing the collaboration and building further on the foundation we’ve created together," concludes Mundal.