Rafael Anduix, CEO of ANCAVICO: “The support of the CDTI Innovation and the European FEMP funds has been fundamental to accelerate technological investments that allow us to compete in the most demanding markets”

Established in 2003, Productos del Mar Ancavico S.L., bears witness to a family tradition linked to the fishing sector for more than fifty years. Throughout these decades, the Alicante company has evolved into a model specialized in high-quality ultra-frozen products, consolidating its presence in markets as demanding as Europe and the United States. "In recent years we have experienced sustained growth thanks to our specialization in high added value products, especially octopus, tuna and swordfish," explains CEO Rafael Anduix.

As the company has grown, so has its commitment to innovation. The continuous improvement of processes has become a key element to compete in an increasingly demanding market, where quality, food safety and product consistency are decisive.

A plant prepared for the new requirements

With this objective, Ancavico launched the “Technological Innovation for the Transformation of Fisheries Products” project, an action aimed at comprehensively modernizing the plant and optimizing all stages of the process, from the reception of the raw material to the final packaging. "The main goal is to optimize the entire production process, from handling to final packaging, incorporating new technologies that allow better preservation of product properties, increase productive capacity and strengthen quality and traceability controls," explains Rafael Anduix.

The modernization of the ANCAVICO plant incorporates new automation systems that streamline the process and improve control at each stage of production

The final objective was to incorporate new technologies capable of improving product conservation, increasing production capacity and strengthening control and traceability systems, thus responding to the growing demands of distributors and consumers.

More quality from the first process

One of the main advances has been the incorporation of a new spiral freezing tunnel for the treatment of octopus. Compared to conventional systems, this technology allows faster, more uniform and controlled freezing, improving both the final product quality and the efficiency of the plant.
In addition to better preserving the texture, flavor and aroma of the product, the system reduces processing times, increases productive capacity and improves the use of available space, ensuring greater uniformity between batches.

The modernization also included the implementation of an automated conveyor belt circuit that connects the different phases of the production process. Thanks to this system, the manual handling of food is reduced, the workflow is streamlined and the ergonomics and safety of the operators are improved. "The result is a more efficient plant, with greater production capacity and better control of processes," the CEO details.

Traceability and food safety

The project also strengthened quality control through the incorporation of new systems of sanitation, packaging and digital information management. After freezing, the octopus passes through a hermetic sealing system that protects it from contamination, oxidation and loss of moisture. The result is a food that preserves for a longer time its quality and its original characteristics.

All this technology was integrated with the management systems of the company, allowing to record information in real time throughout the manufacturing process and to have complete traceability from the reception of the raw material to the final product. “We can identify each batch, monitor critical production parameters and have detailed records to ensure compliance with national and international regulations,” he explains. In addition, this comprehensive control strengthens the confidence of customers and distributors in the safety, quality and consistency of the product.

Efficiency to produce in a more sustainable way

The modernization of the plant has also had a direct impact on energy efficiency and the use of resources. New equipment makes it possible to optimize manufacturing times, reduce product losses and minimize reprocesses, while state-of-the-art machinery consumes less energy than previous technologies.

Packaging system to better preserve product quality and safety

According to Rafael Anduix, "the new technologies incorporated allow a more efficient use of energy and better management of productive resources, which decreases the environmental impact and allows us to move towards efficient and responsible production." In this way, the company has managed to combine increased productivity with reduced food waste and more efficient use of energy, two aspects that have become priorities for the food industry.

The impulse of the CDTI Innovation

In this process of technological transformation, the support of the CDTI Innovation, co-financed by the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund (FEMP), allowed to accelerate the modernization of the plant and strengthen the company's competitive capacity. This European Union instrument promotes innovation and sustainability projects in the fisheries and aquaculture sector. "The support of the CDTI has been fundamental to promote a project of great strategic relevance for our company," says the CEO.

For Rafael Anduix, the value of this support goes far beyond financing, since it also represents a recognition of innovation as an engine of competitiveness for the food industry. "This type of program allows us to accelerate investments that generate added value, qualified employment and greater technological capacity for companies," he adds.

Innovation to keep growing

Once this project is completed, Ancavico maintains innovation as one of the axes of its growth strategy. The company will continue to rely on automation, the development of new products and continuous improvement to continue responding to the demands of international markets and consolidate its position in the segment of high-end sea products.

“We want to continue to grow sustainably in Europe and the United States, strengthening our position as a trusted partner for distribution and restoration, and contributing to the modernization of the fisheries sector,” he concludes.

CDTI Innovation

The Center for Technological Development and Innovation, CDTI E.P.E. It is the innovation agency of the Ministry of Science, Innovation and Universities, whose objective is the promotion of technological innovation in the business environment. The mission of the CDTI is to ensure that the Spanish business fabric generates and transforms scientific and technical knowledge into globally competitive, sustainable and inclusive growth. In 2025, within the framework of the Strategic Plan 2024-2027, the CDTI provided 2,423 million euros of support to Spanish companies and startups.

 
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