Ecobat Finalizes Deal to Sell U.K. Operations to Splitstone Capital Funds

In a significant move aimed at consolidating its operations, Ecobat, recognized as a global leader in battery recycling, has successfully finalized the sale of its battery recycling and specialty lead operations located in the United Kingdom. The deal involves facilities in Matlock and Welwyn Garden City, and was advised by Splitstone Capital LLP, a private equity firm based in London.

Tom Slabe, the President and CEO of Ecobat, expressed the strategic importance of this sale, stating, "With this closing, we've executed on our strategic plan to reposition the business." This move comes alongside earlier divestitures made by Ecobat in other European markets including France, Italy, Germany, and Austria. Slabe highlighted that the decision to exit the U.K. market is part of a broader strategy to intensify the company’s focus on North America, particularly on lithium-ion battery recycling operations.

The sale is not merely a financial transaction but also reflects Ecobat's commitment to maximizing shareholder value by concentrating on sectors where it can have a more substantial impact. The battery recycling industry is evolving rapidly, and as the demand for sustainable and efficient battery solutions increases, Ecobat aims to leverage its expertise positively.

The facilities involved in this transaction are integral to Ecobat's previous operations, but the company has decided to shift gears and pursue growth opportunities primarily within North America. This pivot can be attributed to the burgeoning market for electric vehicles, which rely heavily on efficient and sustainable battery recycling solutions. With this strategic exit, Ecobat is poised to innovate further and expand its services, meeting the increasing need for eco-friendly battery disposal and recycling.

Splitstone Capital, known for acquiring industrial and business services companies, particularly in the U.K. and Ireland, will now oversee the operations taken over from Ecobat. Founded in 2024, Splitstone Capital is focused on managing and cultivating these non-core business segments to enhance operational efficiencies and drive growth. They aim to revive and optimize the U.K. operations, aligning with their investment philosophy of finding value in overlooked sectors.

The financial intricacies of the sale were handled by Rothschild & Co., who served as financial advisors to Ecobat, while White & Case provided legal counsel. This collaboration ensured a smooth transition that is conducive to future growth for both companies involved.

As Ecobat transitions away from its European operations, it remains committed to not only maintaining but enhancing its operations in North America. The company aims to explore new avenues that contribute to regenerative practices within the battery industry. This includes a focus on maximizing the recovery of essential materials used in energy storage and tackling the challenges posed by electronic waste sustainably.

Looking ahead, Ecobat has declared its ambition to continue pursuing additional opportunities that would optimize value for its shareholders. By streamlining operations and concentrating efforts on the North American market, the company hopes to solidify its position as a leading entity in battery recycling and resource recovery. The future is bright for Ecobat as it embraces this new chapter, steering towards innovative solutions and sustainable practices that resonate with modern demands for environmental consciousness in the industrial sector.

Topics Consumer Technology)

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