Ecobat Agrees to Divest Germany and Austria Battery Recycling Units to Clarios

Ecobat's Strategic Move: Selling Operations in Germany and Austria

In a significant strategic decision, Ecobat, a dominant player in the battery recycling sector, has announced a binding agreement to divest its battery recycling operations in Germany and Austria to Clarios, a leading company in advanced energy storage technologies. This deal, as per the announcement made on August 18, 2025, encompasses Ecobat's facilities located in Freiberg and Braubach in Germany and the operation in Arnoldstein, Austria.

The Rationale Behind the Decision

Ecobat's President and CEO, Tom Slabe, expressed his satisfaction with the transaction, highlighting its role in focusing the company’s efforts on core operations and augmenting their global lithium-ion battery business. The decision follows previous divestitures in France and Italy, illustrating Ecobat’s ongoing strategy to streamline its operations.

By selling these operations, Ecobat aims to maximize shareholder value while advancing sustainability goals. The company reassures stakeholders that this move does not signify a retreat but a refocus towards enhancing their recycling capabilities and exploring new opportunities in the evolving energy landscape.

What This Means for Clarios

Clarios stands to benefit greatly from this acquisition, gaining access to established battery recycling facilities that will undoubtedly bolster its operations in Europe. By integrating Ecobat's assets, Clarios, which is well-known for its extensive range of battery technologies, can further its brand in the automotive sector under the VARTA name, ensuring that their products continue to meet the growing demands for eco-friendly solutions.

Tom Slabe commented on Clarios' proficiency and visionary approach, indicating strong confidence that they will build upon Ecobat’s legacy of cultivating valuable relationships with employees, customers, and suppliers in the region. This acquisition underscores Clarios' commitment to sustainability and innovation while also enhancing its operational footprint in Europe.

Future Outlook

The closure of the transaction is anticipated by early 2026, contingent upon receiving necessary regulatory approvals. Financial advisory services for Ecobat will be provided by Rothschild & Co., alongside legal assistance from White & Case.

Ecobat, recognized as the largest battery recycler globally with operations spanning Europe and the U.S., is dedicated to developing and implementing sustainable solutions for battery recycling and resource recovery. With a clear vision focused on responsible management of essential materials for modern life, the company's strategic divestitures pave the way for more fortified pursuits in the green energy market.

Clarios, with its mission of delivering reliable battery technologies, continues to demonstrate a strong commitment to sustainability, achieving a remarkable milestone by recycling about 8,000 batteries every hour across its network. As both companies move forward, their alignment in sustainable practices marks a future filled with potential for innovation and efficiency in the energy storage arena. This merger brings new hope for the continued growth and success of battery recycling in Europe, setting the pace for others in the industry to follow.

Both companies are positioned to capitalize on the synergies that arise from this transaction, propelling them toward an even more sustainable future in the battery industry.