California-based Tsar Nicoulai Caviar has acquired Sterling Caviar, creating the largest caviar producer in the U.S. Sterling, which went into receivership in April 2024 with over $23 million in debt, was founded in 1988 and had struggled financially for years, including a reported $8.7 million loss in 2020.
Tsar Nicoulai, owned by the Bolourchi family since 2014, plans to revitalize Sterling’s operations, emphasizing sustainability and innovation. Tsar Nicoulai, founded in 1984, has implemented eco-friendly practices like solar panels, aquaponics, and advanced water systems at its facilities. Recently, it expanded its farm with 54 new recirculating aquaculture system (RAS) tanks, designed for nearly 100% water efficiency and global leadership in sustainable sturgeon farming.
The acquisition is seen as a strategic move to enhance competition with larger global caviar producers while highlighting U.S. sustainability practices.