Ocean Choice International Inc. (OCI) is one of Canada’s leading vertically integrated seafood companies, headquartered in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador. With a comprehensive approach encompassing harvesting, processing, and global marketing, OCI plays a vital role in delivering high-quality, sustainably sourced North Atlantic seafood to more than 30 countries worldwide.
Core Business and Product Portfolio
Ocean Choice specializes in both wild capture fisheries and land-based processing of a wide range of premium seafood species. The company’s product portfolio includes:
-
Shellfish:
- Snow Crab
- Cold-Water Shrimp
- Lobster
- Scallops
-
Groundfish:
- Atlantic Cod
- Greenland Halibut
- Redfish
- Flounder & Sole
-
Pelagic Species:
Products are processed into various formats including whole round, fillets, portions, and value-added items, meeting the needs of retail, foodservice, and industrial clients.
Harvesting and Processing Capabilities
OCI is unique in the Canadian seafood industry due to its vertical integration across the entire value chain. The company owns and operates:
- Six offshore fishing vessels, including two factory freezer trawlers with advanced onboard processing capabilities
- Five state-of-the-art processing plants in Newfoundland and Nova Scotia
- Cold storage and logistics infrastructure to support efficient domestic and international distribution
OCI's offshore fleet enables year-round harvesting of key species in the cold, pristine waters of the Northwest Atlantic, ensuring both consistency and quality.
Sustainability and Certifications
Ocean Choice is a champion of sustainable fishing practices and holds certifications that reflect its commitment to marine stewardship:
- Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) certification for several species including northern shrimp and scallops
- Ocean Trust Certified Responsible Fisheries Management (RFM) recognition
- Active participant in Fisheries Improvement Projects (FIPs) and partnerships with NGOs to support stock sustainability
The company utilizes selective harvesting techniques, gear modifications, and real-time tracking to reduce bycatch and environmental impact.
Global Market Reach and Export Data
OCI exports more than 95% of its products globally, with major markets including:
- United States
- European Union
- China
- Japan
- South Korea
Based on international trade data and Canadian export statistics:
- The company ships thousands of metric tons annually, with a focus on frozen-at-sea (FAS) seafood and value-added retail products
- Annual export value is estimated to exceed CAD $300 million
- OCI products are distributed through retail chains, wholesalers, foodservice distributors, and industrial processors worldwide
Employment and Community Impact
OCI is a major employer in Atlantic Canada:
- Employs over 1,700 people across its fishing vessels and processing plants
- Supports coastal and Indigenous communities through local hiring and long-term economic development partnerships
- Invests in training and safety programs to promote workforce development and operational excellence
Innovation and Sustainability Investments
In recent years, Ocean Choice has:
- Launched multi-million-dollar upgrades to its fleet and facilities, including eco-friendly trawler design and automation in processing plants
- Deployed real-time data and electronic monitoring systems on vessels to improve transparency and resource management
- Developed new product lines aligned with market trends, such as individually quick frozen (IQF) seafood portions for retail
Quality and Compliance
OCI maintains the highest standards for food safety and quality assurance:
- Facilities are HACCP certified and comply with CFIA (Canadian Food Inspection Agency) and FDA regulations
- Products meet EU approval standards, enabling seamless trade with European markets
- Ongoing audits and third-party inspections ensure quality and traceability throughout the supply chain
Strategic Partnerships and Recognition
- Member of Seafood Nutrition Partnership, Global Seafood Alliance, and Groundfish Enterprise Allocation Council
- Recognized for leadership in sustainability and innovation by industry publications and export bodies
- Participates in key global trade shows including Seafood Expo Global, China Fisheries & Seafood Expo, and Boston Seafood Show
Ocean Choice International Inc. remains a flagship enterprise in Canada’s seafood sector. Its commitment to sustainability, innovation, and community-driven operations positions the company as a global leader in responsibly harvested, premium-quality Atlantic seafood.
