Press Release: New Partners at Browne Trading Company

Browne Trading Company announces new partnerships to drive national distribution and sustainability 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

01/27/2025 - Browne Trading Company is pleased to announce the formation of 260 Commercial Investments through the addition of three distinguished investment partners. Since its founding in 1991, Browne Trading Company has established itself as a leader in the seafood and caviar industry, expanding from local wholesale roots to a nationally recognized distributor while building a direct-to-consumer online channel and a beloved market in downtown Portland.

This new partnership will enhance Browne Trading’s capacity to grow its distribution network and advance its sustainability initiatives, all while remaining committed to the luxury quality and Maine heritage that define the company. 

Rod Browne Mitchell, Browne Trading Company’s founder and CEO, will continue to lead day-to-day operations, ensuring the company’s dedication to excellence remains unchanged. 

Introducing Our Partners:

· Rod Browne Mitchell – Founder and CEO

Rod Mitchell has played a pivotal role in shaping the U.S. fine dining industry. His journey began in the 1980s with a chance encounter with renowned chef Jean-Louis Palladin at Rod’s wine and cheese shop in Camden, Maine, which set the stage for his legacy as the preferred fishmonger to some of the world's most celebrated chefs. In 1991, Rod founded Browne Trading Company in Portland, Maine, strategically located on the working waterfront, allowing him to source the finest seafood from Maine and around the world. He revolutionized the industry by pioneering overnight shipping of top-tier seafood and caviar, delivering exceptional products to chefs and home cooks nationwide. 

"When I'm looking for the best caviar and freshest seafood to serve my demanding New York clientele, I rely on Rod Mitchell's consistently superior product." – Chef Daniel Boulud.

· Ed Chiles

Ed Chiles brings over 45 years of experience focusing on sustainable food systems, having established three acclaimed waterfront restaurants on Anna Maria Island and longboat Key FL. The restaurants set a benchmark for sustainable seafood, later integrating organic produce from his purchase of Gamble Creek Farm in Parrish Fl, which after his purchase was certified as one of only five Real Organic farms in Florida.

In 2024 Chiles sold his restaurants but remains a passionate advocate for environmental sustainability. His initiatives include Shogun Farm, a pioneering project addressing the ecological challenges of dealing with invasive wild boar, by transforming them into premium artisanal pork products. Chiles is a partner in Lola Wines and Tanasi Nutraceuticals and a cofounder of the Gulf Shellfish Institute. The Institute champions scientific research and best practices to advance bivalve aquaculture and biological mitigation strategies, focusing on bivalve and seagrass restoration in Florida’s coastal estuaries. With his partnership in Browne Trading, Chiles continues to leverage his focus toward innovation and environmental stewardship, further solidifying his commitment to sustainable food systems and ocean conservation.

· Paul A. Brooke – Chairman of the Board of Directors

Paul Brooke offers unparalleled expertise in investment and corporate strategy. A seasoned leader with decades of experience in healthcare and private investment, Paul’s distinguished career includes roles as founder and managing partner of venBio LLC, Chairman of Alsius Corporation, Chairman of Caelum Biosciences, and senior positions at Morgan Stanley and Tiger Management. Paul’s strategic leadership will be instrumental in steering Browne Trading toward its next chapter of growth.

· Jeff Sedacca

Jeff Sedacca launched his family seafood business in 1972 and later became Co-President of National Fish, expanding its U.S. and European operations for one of the world’s largest fishing companies. He also led the American division of Guo Lian, China’s top publicly traded aquaculture company, and was one of the first Walmart food vendors in 1991.

As a pioneer in aquaculture and seafood sustainability, Jeff was one of the founders of the Global Aquaculture Alliance (now Global Seafood Alliance) and is a member of Mote Marine Laboratories’ Research Committee. His connection with founder, Rod Browne Mitchell, began in the early 2000s through their shared passion for caviar. 

“Rod and I have been friends for many years, and I’m thrilled to join Browne Trading Company to help scale up this wonderful business”- Jeff Sedacca.

Along with Ed Chiles, Jeff is a Director of Gulf Shellfish Institute. With Jeff’s unmatched expertise and global perspective, Browne Trading Company is poised for an exciting new chapter of growth and innovation.

All partners hold Fellow positions at the Culinary Institute of America. Browne Trading Company is excited about the opportunities this partnership brings to expand its market presence and deepen its commitment to sustainable practices.

About The Company

Founded in 1991, Browne Trading Company is a renowned business based in Portland, Maine. Distinguished for its exceptional seafood and caviar, the company supplies professional and Michelin starred restaurants, luxury retailers, and discerning consumers across the country. Rooted in Maine’s rich maritime traditions, Browne Trading is committed to sustainability and preserving the integrity of its craft.