Our story: seafarers since 1972

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It is a dream born on the waves, between the scent of the salt and the desire to bring to the table the best that the sea could offer, that of Vito Panati who founded Panapesca in 1972. It's a story of innovation, challenges overcome, and extraordinary people who, every day, share the same passion: respect for the sea and a commitment to bringing its authentic flavor intact to tables around the world.

A profession built over the years

1965

THE ORIGINS

Vito Panati and his wife started a company specializing in the trade of fresh fish products.

THE FOUNDATION

It was founded “Nuova Panapesca S.r.l"

1972

1
2

1975-1980

GROWTH

As the frozen seafood trade gains momentum, turnover is growing at a dizzying rate.

PRODIMAR

It is acquired Prodimar, a company specialized in the distribution and sale of ethnic fish products.

1998

2000

THAI SPRING FISH

It is born Thai Spring Fish, a Thai factory specializing in the production and sale of clams, cuttlefish, Argentine shrimp, and squid. 

THE NEWS

Panapesca launches a series of innovative, high-quality products on the market. 

2002-2008

3
Xenon history

2011

MER FRUIT

It is acquired Mer Fruit, a plant in Morocco specializing in the processing of Mediterranean octopus, squid, and cuttlefish, a further step in the Group's growth and specialization strategy.  

PANAPESCA – XENON

Panapesca is acquired by Xenon Private Equity and launches a strategic rationalization plan to focus on the core business.

2018

2019

SEA FOOD ACADEMY

The Panapesca Seafood Academy is born,
training and innovation center
for the fishing sector. 

THE LIGHTHOUSE

The group acquires 65% of Il Faro, a company specializing in frozen gourmet dishes and ready-made meals, strengthening its presence in the strategic Riviera Romagnola.

2020

6
history the lighthouse

2023

THE NEW CEO

Giovanni Sabino, the new CEO of Panapesca, brings new energy and his entrepreneurial vision.

2025

PANAPESCA TODAY

Panapesca has established itself as a leading player in the frozen fish market, thanks to its expertise, know-how, and experience built over fifty years of business. With five companies located in strategic international regions, more than 700 employees, a consolidated presence in the main sales channels, and a widespread distribution network, Panapesca is now a leading provider of the finest seafood to tables and professional kitchens around the world. 

1965

THE ORIGINS

Vito Panati and his wife started a company specializing in the trade of fresh fish products.

1972

THE FOUNDATION

It was founded “Nuova Panapesca S.r.l"

1975-1980

GROWTH

As the frozen seafood trade gains momentum, turnover is growing at a dizzying rate.

1998

PRODIMAR

It is acquired Prodimar, a company specialized in the distribution and sale of ethnic fish products.

2000

THAI SPRING FISH

It is born Thai Spring Fish, a Thai factory specializing in the production and sale of clams, cuttlefish, Argentine shrimp, and squid. 

2002-2008

THE NEWS

Panapesca launches a series on the market
of innovative products of the highest quality. 

2011

MER FRUIT

It is acquired Mer Fruit, a plant in Morocco specializing in the processing of Mediterranean octopus, squid, and cuttlefish, a further step in the Group's growth and specialization strategy. 

2018

PANAPESCA – XENON

 Panapesca is acquired by Xenon Private Equity and launches a strategic rationalization plan to focus on the core business.

2019

SEA FOOD ACADEMY

The Panapesca Seafood Academy is born,
training and innovation center
for the fishing sector. 

2020

THE LIGHTHOUSE

The group acquires 65% of Il Faro, a company specializing in frozen gourmet dishes and ready-made meals, strengthening its presence in the strategic Riviera Romagnola.

2023

THE NEW CEO

Giovanni Sabino, the new CEO of Panapesca, brings new energy and his entrepreneurial vision.

2025

PANAPESCA TODAY

Panapesca has established itself as a leading player in the frozen fish market, thanks to its expertise, know-how, and experience built over fifty years of business. With five companies located in strategic international regions, more than 700 employees, a consolidated presence in the main sales channels, and a widespread distribution network, Panapesca is now a leading provider of the finest seafood to tables and professional kitchens around the world. 

 

"Every day, behind each of our products, there are expert hands, attention to detail, and a strong sense of responsibility. This is what makes the difference, this is what Panapesca does."

John Sabinus

CEO Panapesca

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