Our history
From European Seafood Trader to International Player
Welmar Seafood started in the early 1980s as a European seafood trading company. Founded by Matthy Welling and Eddy Koppers, the company initially focused on seafood distribution across Europe. Through strong partnerships and a growing network, Welmar gradually expanded beyond trading into sourcing and processing, laying the foundation for long-term growth.
Expansion, Processing and Global Sourcing
As demand increased, Welmar expanded its activities into Asia through joint ventures and sourcing offices, building its own processing capabilities in China and Thailand. This marked a strategic shift toward vertical integration — controlling the supply chain from raw material sourcing to processing and European distribution.
At the same time, Welmar strengthened its position in major European markets through acquisitions in France and the UK, securing closer relationships with key customers and expanding its distribution network.
A New Chapter Under Cornelis Vrolijk
In 2016 Cornelis Vrolijk acquired the Welmar business and continued it under the name Welmar Seafood. Today, Welmar Seafood is a diversified seafood import and export company with a strong European presence, supported by decades of industry experience, global sourcing capabilities and long-term partnerships throughout the seafood supply chain.
