Three generations of Icelandic seafood excellence, built on respect for the ocean and the communities that depend on it.
Brimherji was founded in 1947 by Magnús Sigurðsson, a fisherman from Ísafjörður who believed that Iceland's pristine waters held a gift that should be shared with the world.
What began with a single wooden vessel and a crew of eight has grown into one of Iceland's most respected seafood companies. Today, Brimherji operates seven vessels, employs over 450 people, and exports premium seafood products to more than 35 countries.
Despite our growth, we remain true to our founder's vision: that great seafood starts with respect — respect for the ocean, respect for our communities, and respect for the traditions that have sustained Icelandic fishing for centuries.
Our headquarters remain in Ísafjörður, where the Westfjords meet the sea. It's a place where the midnight sun illuminates our summer catches and the Northern Lights dance above our winter fleet. This is where Brimherji belongs.
We honour the traditions of Icelandic fishing while embracing innovation. Our methods evolve, but our respect for the craft endures across generations.
From the moment a fish is caught to the moment it reaches your plate, we maintain the highest standards. Cold-chain integrity, expert processing, rigorous testing.
We fish for today and tomorrow. Every decision we make considers its impact on marine ecosystems, our workforce, and the communities we serve.
Experienced leaders steering Brimherji toward a sustainable and prosperous future.
CEO & Managing Director
CFO
VP Operations & Fleet
VP Sales & Marketing
Director of Processing
Director of Sustainability
Director of HR
Fleet Captain
The milestones that have shaped Brimherji into the company it is today.
Magnús Sigurðsson, a 32-year-old fisherman, purchases Brimrún, a 22-metre wooden vessel, and establishes Brimherji with a crew of 8 from Ísafjörður. The company name merges "brim" (surf/sea) and "herji" (warrior) — warriors of the sea.
Brimherji acquires its second vessel, Ísbjörn, a 30-metre steel trawler. The company begins supplying salt cod to Spain and Portugal.
The company opens its first processing plant at Sundahöfn in Ísafjörður, employing 45 workers. The facility specialises in salt cod and dried fish (harðfiskur).
During Iceland's extension of fishing limits, Brimherji adapts operations and focuses on sustainable harvesting within the new 50-mile zone.
Björn Magnússon takes over as CEO. He expands the fleet to four vessels and opens fresh fish export channels to the UK and Scandinavia.
Iceland introduces the Individual Transferable Quota system. Brimherji secures substantial quota allocations for cod, haddock, and redfish.
Major investment in automated processing lines and blast freezing technology. Brimherji achieves EU and FDA export certification.
Brimherji establishes a sales office in Tokyo and begins exporting premium sashimi-grade products to Japan, South Korea, and China.
All major fisheries achieve Marine Stewardship Council certification. Despite the financial crisis, Brimherji emerges stronger due to its export-driven revenue.
Sigurður Björnsson, grandson of the founder, becomes CEO at age 38. He launches the "Brimherji 2030" strategic vision focusing on sustainability and technology.
The 78-metre flagship Brimfaxi RE-101 is christened in Ísafjörður harbour — the most technologically advanced fishing vessel in Iceland's fleet.
Brimherji reports record revenue. The company commissions Sólfaxi, Iceland's first hybrid-electric fishing vessel, targeting full carbon neutrality by 2030.
We're always looking for talented, passionate people to join the Brimherji family. Explore career opportunities across our fleet and facilities.