The history of Rørvik Fisk begins with Ragnvald and Bjørn Pettersen's parents, Marie and Øivind Pettersen. In 1927, in a basement in Rørvik, their mother began handcrafting fish products. Their father started his career in fish sales by delivering redfish to the steward of the Hurtigruten coastal ferry. Quality products made from the finest raw materials were important for the parents. The demand for Marie’s fish products grew, and the company was established; with the mother in charge of making the fish products and the father selling fresh fish.

Ragnvald and Bjørn started helping out even before finishing secondary school. While the other children swam in the nearest lake, Aunevatnet, the brothers was at the dock cleaning redfish. But that’s how it was—everyone had to contribute. During the 1950’s, both brothers joined the business full-time, driving around Vikna buying wild salmon. As Ragnvald and Bjørn took on more responsibility, they discovered the "romance" of the trade. It was not always smooth sailing, with both setbacks and successes, but that’s what has always been the most rewarding aspect of the industry.

The brothers has always thought about the business around the clock; it means, and has always meant, a great deal to them. Their employees have shown loyalty to the company, and through many years of experience, they have developed a unique expertise. This allows the company to deliver quality products that we are proud of. We have grown by leveraging what the fishermen deliver and have built a market here in Norway, across Europe, as well as in Africa and Asia. The whitefish industry is very important for this territory, as we are lucky to be located in the very heart of one of the most prosperous areas for whitefish and pelagic in Norway.

A good relationship with our fishermen is crucial—not only because they supply the raw materials for our livelihood, but also because open communication is essential to maintaining the high quality we strive for. It’s important that everyone pulls in the same direction, and we feel that we have succeeded here. Both the fishermen and us understand the importance of good quality.

Marie and Øivind built their business with a focus on delivering high-quality products, a legacy that Ragnvald and his brother Bjørn continued for many years. Now, Ragnvald has passed the baton to his sons, Øivind Pettersen and Per Terje Pettersen, who have been entrusted with the honorable task of leading the nearly 100-year-old family business into the future. They are committed to upholding their grandparents' values, while also developing both traditional and innovative products.

Ragnvald Pettersen