In a world where seafood sustainability and business growth often seem at odds, Pacific Seafood is proving that responsible expansion is not only possible but essential. Under the ambitious banner of “Mission 31,” Pacific Seafood is charting a bold path to double the size of its business by 2031—and doing so with sustainability, traceability, and workforce empowerment at its core.
The Vision Behind Mission 31
Launched in 2023, Mission 31 was born out of a simple yet audacious idea: that a company rooted in environmental stewardship and community values can scale significantly without compromising its principles. Pacific Seafood, a family-owned business since 1941, has always prioritized the health of our oceans and the people who depend on them. With Mission 31, the company is taking that commitment global.
The goal? To expand its reach across North America and into European markets, increase seafood accessibility and affordability, and enhance its already robust infrastructure to support sustainability and innovation.
Grounded in Data and Integrity
At the heart of Mission 31 is a data-driven approach to expansion. Pacific Seafood leverages rigorous internal benchmarking, AI-assisted logistics, and advanced forecasting tools to ensure that growth aligns with market demand and resource availability. It’s not about growth for growth’s sake—it’s about growing where Pacific can make the most impact.
This includes identifying regions where underutilized species can be harvested sustainably, investing in aquaculture that meets Best Aquaculture Practices (BAP) standards, and targeting acquisitions that enhance vertical integration.
Building Facilities with Purpose
As part of Mission 31, Pacific Seafood has expanded and modernized facilities in strategic locations like Warrenton, OR; Clackamas, OR; Mukilteo, WA; and Miami, FL. These sites are not only processing centers but also innovation hubs where Pacific tests new sustainability practices and workplace technologies.
In 2024 alone, Pacific invested in high-efficiency cold storage units, solar energy retrofits, and AI-based quality control systems across multiple facilities. These enhancements reduce waste, improve product traceability, and optimize energy consumption.
A Workforce-First Philosophy
One of the most powerful aspects of Mission 31 is its emphasis on people. With over 3,000 team members across the U.S., Canada, Chile, and Europe, Pacific Seafood is deeply committed to workforce development.
Initiatives like the Diamond Leadership Program and the company-wide deployment of the Schoox learning platform underscore this commitment. These tools empower employees with continuous education, professional growth opportunities, and clear pathways to leadership.
In fact, nearly 70% of management promotions in 2024 came from within—a testament to Pacific’s belief in growing people as well as profits.
Leading with Sustainability
Mission 31 aligns closely with Pacific Seafood’s long-standing environmental goals. The company is a proud supporter of the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) and operates the first BAP 4-star certified oyster and steelhead farms in the U.S.
Recent environmental wins include:
– A 15% reduction in facility energy consumption year-over-year
– A 10% increase in recyclable material use in packaging
– Expansion of the “Dive Team,” which safeguards aquaculture pens and marine habitats
These outcomes aren’t side effects of growth; they’re its driving force. For Pacific, being good stewards of natural resources is good business.
Eyes on Europe
With the opening of its Hamburg, Germany office in 2025, Pacific Seafood took its first major step into the European market. Led by Ashton Meier and Stephan Kleemeyer, this team is laying the groundwork for partnerships, acquisitions, and a stronger presence in EU markets.
Europe presents a compelling opportunity. As a region deeply concerned with sustainability and food quality, it aligns perfectly with Pacific’s mission. Initial feedback from partners and clients has been overwhelmingly positive, especially in high-demand segments like frozen shellfish and premium finfish.
A Global Footprint with Local Roots
While Mission 31 is global in scope, it remains local at heart. Pacific Seafood continues to invest in coastal communities, support local fisheries, and celebrate its Pacific Northwest heritage.
In Clackamas, OR—home to the company headquarters—Pacific sponsors educational programs, food bank initiatives, and marine science research. Similar efforts are underway in all operational hubs, including new outreach in Europe.
The Road Ahead
By 2031, Pacific Seafood aims to not only double in size but redefine what responsible growth looks like in the seafood industry. Mission 31 is a promise: to lead with purpose, innovate with integrity, and serve with heart.
In an era of greenwashing and short-term thinking, Pacific Seafood is delivering something rare: a growth strategy that serves people, planet, and profit in equal measure. Mission 31 isn’t just a plan. It’s a movement.
Stay tuned as we continue this journey—from the docks of Oregon to dinner plates across the globe.
