Franchising the future of seaweed

To overcome the challenges of high production costs relative to market prices and the short harvest season in seaweed farming, KOASTAL leverages fishers’ existing infrastructure and builds a network of farms, creating a more efficient and sustainable production and logistics system.

Since 2022, the KOASTAL supports a franchise model for sustainable sugar kelp farming, aiming to integrate seaweed cultivation into the seafood value chain. With six farms in operation and ten permits secured, KOASTAL provides small-scale actors, especially fishers, with turnkey support, including permits, equipment, seedlings, training, and a crop buy-back guarantee. This enables income diversification during the winter harvest season while reducing production risks and promoting sustainable aquaculture.

At the same time, KOASTAL ensures consistent, high-quality seaweed supply to large-scale buyers by coordinating production across its network of farms, lowering risks for both producers and customers.