Innovative Merger: VLS Environmental Solutions Acquires Samex Environmental to Boost Sustainability Efforts on the West Coast

VLS Environmental Solutions Expands with Samex Acquisition

In a significant move aimed at bolstering its operations along the West Coast, VLS Environmental Solutions has officially announced the acquisition of Samex Environmental, a company renowned for its expertise in hazardous waste management. Based in San Diego, Samex brings over 30 years of industry experience, particularly in hazardous waste fuel blending and recycling services. This acquisition aligns with VLS’s ongoing mission to advance its sustainability initiatives and provide comprehensive waste management solutions.

Strategic Expansion on the West Coast

The deal, celebrated on March 24, 2025, not only enhances VLS's operational footprint but also expands its service offerings. With state-of-the-art processing facilities situated in Tijuana, Mexico, Samex's integration strengthens VLS's capabilities significantly. John Magee, CEO of VLS Environmental Solutions, remarked on this strategic partnership: "This partnership is a key milestone for VLS as we continue scaling our operations across North America. Samex's industry reputation for leadership in hazardous waste fuel blending complements our objective of providing innovative waste management solutions."

Commitment to Sustainability

VLS's acquisition of Samex reflects a growing market demand for integrated environmental services that focus on sustainability. Samex is particularly known for its innovative recycling programs that minimize carbon emissions by leveraging local processing through a network of cement kilns. Jesus Ojeda, CEO of Samex, expressed excitement about the merger, asserting that it enables both companies to enhance their service offerings while maintaining their shared commitment to environmental stewardship.

Strengthening Industry Expertise

By integrating Samex's hazardous waste proficiency with its own non-hazardous capabilities, which already include waste-to-energy processing and wastewater treatment, VLS is establishing a robust portfolio that serves diverse industries. This alignment is expected to enhance operational efficiency and further drive sustainability efforts for clients seeking to meet their zero-waste goals.

According to Victor Castro, VP of Operations for Samex, the collaboration opens doors for new opportunities to address complex environmental challenges. "Together, we can unlock innovative pathways that make a tangible impact on environmental conservancy," he stated, emphasizing the synergy that this acquisition brings to both firms.

A Comprehensive Waste Management Solution

With the merger, VLS now boasts one of the most comprehensive waste management portfolios on the West Coast. The consortium serves a wide range of industries, from petrochemicals to pharmaceuticals. Coupled with Samex’s recycling services, VLS’s innovative Engineered Fuel Program transforms non-hazardous secondary materials into sustainable alternative fuels, setting the combined business apart as a leader in holistic waste management practices.

Keith Cordesman, President of VLS, highlighted how the integration embodies the amalgamation of both hazardous and non-hazardous waste management solutions, presenting unparalleled efficiency and ecological benefits. The emphasis on operational synergies between VLS and Samex will undoubtedly cater to the evolving needs of the marketplace.

Cultural and Financial Alignment

The acquisition also brings financial and cultural benefits, facilitating continued innovation and sustainability goals for both companies. Samir Camacho, CFO of Samex, remarked, "Joining VLS provides us with the support of a market leader while allowing us to uphold the core values that have distinguished Samex throughout its history. Together, we will keep innovating and responding to the rising demands of our clients."

With over 1,400 employees and 50+ locations across North America, this marks VLS’s fourteenth acquisition, with plans to further diversify its environmental solutions offerings. As companies continue to prioritize sustainable practices, this merger showcases how collaboration can lead to a more resilient and responsible approach to waste management.

The combined efforts of VLS Environmental Solutions and Samex Environmental not only represent a powerful alliance in the environmental sector but also signify a committed stride towards a more sustainable future in waste management.