HSBC UK funding package to drive development of innovative semi-closed containment systems amidst growing industry demand for eco-friendly practices.
Inverness-based Gael Force Group, a prominent vertically integrated supplier and manufacturer of aquaculture equipment, has successfully secured a seven-figure funding package from HSBC UK. This significant investment is earmarked to accelerate the development and market launch of its innovative semi-closed containment system (SCCS), known as SeaQureFarm, alongside other strategic growth initiatives aimed at enhancing sustainable fish farming practices.
The aquaculture sector, particularly in the UK, is experiencing robust growth, with the market reaching 2.84 million tonnes in 2025 and projected to expand to 4.03 million tonnes by 2034. This growth is largely fuelled by increasing consumer health consciousness and a demand for sustainably sourced protein. However, the industry faces mounting pressure from stringent environmental regulations, concerns over disease management, and the persistent challenge of sea lice infestations.
Gael Force Group’s SCCS technology, specifically the SeaQureWell, addresses many of these critical environmental and operational challenges. These systems operate through a closed-loop mechanism, utilising an impermeable barrier to separate farmed fish from the surrounding marine environment. They continuously pump clean deep-sea water into the enclosure while safely capturing waste, such as faecal depositions and uneaten feed. [cite: Source Article, 4, 10, 18, 23, 25] According to modelling, the SeaQureWell system is designed to capture over 90% of this organic waste, which can then be repurposed into fertiliser, significantly reducing the environmental footprint typically associated with traditional open net pen aquaculture. [cite: Source Article, 6, 7, 10, 26]
Beyond waste management, the SeaQureWell system is engineered to protect farmed fish from external threats including sea lice, gill amoeba, jellyfish, harmful algae blooms, and marine mammal predation. This enhanced biosecurity minimises the need for chemical treatments and can lead to improved fish health, better growth rates, and reduced mortality, thereby offering a more humane and economically efficient farming method.
Stewart Graham, Founder and Managing Director at Gael Force Group, highlighted the strategic importance of the funding, stating: “Securing this funding has allowed Gael Force Group to support project builds, and substantial product sales that benefit our customers across the world. The industry is one of the UK’s leading food exports and so it was important to work with a bank that understood our business goals and could provide tailored support for our growth.” [cite: Source Article]
HSBC UK has demonstrated a consistent commitment to supporting the aquaculture sector and broader sustainable farming initiatives. The bank recently launched its Sustainable Farming Pathway, which offers discounted loan arrangement fees for agricultural businesses that adopt certified sustainable practices. This aligns with a growing financial industry focus on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors in investment decisions.
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Neal Tully, Corporate Relationship Director at HSBC UK, affirmed the bank’s dedication to the sector: “We’re pleased to be working with Gael Force Group, supporting the company as they continue to advance sustainable fish farming systems. HSBC UK has a long history of supporting the aquaculture sector, and we’re delighted to provide the funding needed to help the company achieve its next phase of growth and development.” [cite: Source Article] The bank has previously provided significant financing to other key players in the UK seafood industry, underscoring its role in facilitating sector growth and modernisation.
Gael Force Group, established in 1983, has a long history of innovation, evolving from a creel manufacturing business into a comprehensive provider of marine equipment and technology. [cite: Source Article, 31] Their vertical integration allows them to streamline production and offer cost-effective solutions to fish farmers. [cite: Source Article] The company has been actively developing its SeaQureFarm concept for several years, including partnering with Cunningham Covers for prototype production of the SeaQureWell. Notably, Stewart Graham’s ownership of Loch Alba Group, a trout farming operation, provides an immediate proving ground, with the first SeaQureWell floating semi-closed containment pen currently being installed at their Ardnish site on Loch Ailort.
The shift towards advanced aquaculture technologies like SCCS represents a crucial step for the UK, particularly Scotland’s salmon farming industry, which accounted for 87% of UK aquaculture production in 2019 and contributed £1.5 billion to Scotland’s economy in 2018. By mitigating environmental impacts and improving fish welfare, these innovations can help secure the industry’s social licence to operate and support its continued economic contribution.
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