Tantalizers Plc has announced a major expansion into Nigeria’s blue economy with the acquisition of 10 state-of-the-art trawlers and a strategic partnership with a U.S.-based marine consortium. The move marks a significant step in the company’s diversification strategy as it seeks new growth opportunities in key sectors of the Nigerian economy.
According to a notice to the Nigerian Exchange Limited, the newly acquired trawlers are equipped with advanced deep-sea fishing technology and are expected to boost Nigeria’s seafood industry. Under a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between Tantalizers Plc and the U.S. consortium, the trawlers—currently stationed in Honduras and New Bedford, USA—will be delivered to Nigeria by May 2025. A newly established subsidiary, Tantalizers Fisheries Limited, will oversee operations, positioning Nigeria as a key player in the global seafood value chain.
Beyond fleet expansion, Tantalizers Plc has partnered with the U.S. fisheries consortium, chaired by Charles Quinn, to strengthen its entry into the seafood industry. The consortium, known for its expertise in sustainable fishing, seafood processing, and global distribution, will provide technical support, operational training, and access to international markets. The partnership also includes a technology transfer agreement to align Nigerian seafood exports with global sustainability and quality standards.
Speaking at the MoU signing in New Bedford, Massachusetts, Tantalizers Plc’s Group Managing Director, Rob Speijer, highlighted the company’s vision for transformation. “This acquisition and partnership will position Tantalizers Plc as a Nigerian multinational, strengthening our footprint as a fully diversified ‘foodtainment conglomerate’ with interests in entertainment, quick-service restaurants, fisheries, seafood processing, and export,” he said.
Chairman of Quinn Fisheries and Harvester Fishing, Charlie Quinn, expressed optimism about the collaboration, emphasizing Nigeria’s potential as a key seafood supplier. “Nigeria has always been on our radar as a valuable source of protein for the American market. This partnership and the deployment of 10 trawlers will give us a strong foothold in the West African Ocean’s rich aquatic resources. We are excited to see this vision come to life with Tantalizers Plc,” he stated.
Further strengthening its presence in the seafood industry, Tantalizers Plc has commenced groundwork for a seafood processing and cold chain facility in Nigeria. This facility will enhance value addition, quality control, and product traceability—critical factors for penetrating premium export markets in Europe, Asia, and North America.
