Fortune International Acquires Simply Fresh, Strengthening Its Local Fresh Seafood Sourcing and Custom-Cutting Capabilities in the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast Markets

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6:00 AM on Thursday, December 18

The Associated Press

BENSENVILLE, Ill. & DURHAM, N.C.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec 18, 2025--

Fortune International, LLC, the country’s leading processor, distributor and importer of premium seafood, meats, and specialty products, is proud to announce the acquisition of Simply Fresh, a Durham, North Carolina-based processor and purveyor of fresh fish and seafood. Founded in 2006 by Trey Bohn, Simply Fresh has built a strong reputation for delivering high-quality, responsibly sourced seafood to the most esteemed chefs across the region.

This strategic acquisition strengthens Fortune International’s capabilities within its Mid-Atlantic and Southeast operations and reinforces its commitment to providing customers with the freshest, most sustainable seafood options available. By integrating Simply Fresh’s expertise and regional sourcing relationships, Fortune International will enhance its ability to serve the growing demand for premium seafood in North Carolina and surrounding markets.

"We are thrilled to welcome Simply Fresh into the Fortune family," said Sean O’Scannlain, Founder and CEO at Fortune International. "Their dedication to providing the best customer service and the highest quality seafood aligns perfectly with our mission to elevate meals and lives."

Simply Fresh began as a small operation serving local restaurants and quickly became a trusted regional supplier of high-quality, sustainably sourced seafood. Trey’s vision and commitment to excellence shaped the company for nearly two decades. After his unexpected passing in 2024, Jim Vassallo—who had been instrumental in launching and growing Simply Fresh—stepped in to lead the business, supporting Trey’s wife, Jean, and the team while preserving Trey’s legacy. Jim and the Simply Fresh team will now join Fortune Fish & Gourmet, with Jim serving as Director of Seafood in North Carolina.

“We are pleased to announce that with the acquisition by Fortune Fish & Gourmet, our commitment to quality, exceptional service, and customer satisfaction will not only continue, but truly flourish,” said Jean Bohn, owner of Simply Fresh. “We look forward to leveraging this exciting new chapter to further strengthen our position in the market and to continue exceeding our customers’ expectations.”

Jim Vassallo added: “Trey built Simply Fresh on integrity, quality, and relationships. After his passing, my goal was to honor his legacy and support Jean and our team until we found the right partner. Fortune International shares Trey’s values and vision, and I’m excited to continue this journey with them.”

About Fortune International
Fortune International is a premier distributor of seafood, meats, and specialty products, serving restaurants, hotels, and retailers nationwide. With a focus on sustainability, quality, and innovation, Fortune International continues to set the standard for excellence in the industry.

View source version on businesswire.com:https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20251218269811/en/

CONTACT: For Fortune International, LLC

Kim Stewart, Director of Marketing

Phone: (630) 521-4014

Email:[email protected]

For Simply Fresh

Jim Vassallo, Director of Seafood NC

Phone: 919-271-5206

Email:[email protected]

KEYWORD: ILLINOIS NORTH CAROLINA UNITED STATES NORTH AMERICA

INDUSTRY KEYWORD: SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT RETAIL RESTAURANT/BAR FOOD/BEVERAGE

SOURCE: Fortune International, LLC