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Western Midstream Partners and Aris Water Solutions Announce Key Merger Details

On September 29, 2025, Western Midstream Partners, LP (NYSE: WES) and Aris Water Solutions, Inc. (NYSE: ARIS) jointly disclosed important timelines related to their impending merger. This announcement revolves around the decision-making process for Aris's shareholders, who must indicate their preferences for the form of merger consideration in connection with WES's acquisition of Aris.

Election Deadline Set for October 7, 2025

Aris securityholders are urged to participate actively in this upcoming merger by making their choices known by the election deadline. The deadline for submitting the election forms, whether through traditional mail or online, has been established for 5:00 PM (New York time) on October 7, 2025.

For those shareholders wishing to physically send in their election forms, timely delivery to the designated Exchange Agent, Computershare Trust Company, N.A., is crucial. The election forms must be meticulously filled out and accompanied by all necessary documentation to be considered valid. If shareholders have their shares managed by a broker or some other nominee, they should consult those intermediaries for guidance on making their election.

Forms of Consideration

Under the terms outlined in the merger agreement, Aris securityholders may choose from the following options:
1. Common Unit Election Consideration: Each share of Class A common stock of Aris may be exchanged for 0.625 common units representing limited partner interests in Western Midstream.
2. Combination Consideration: This option allows shareholders to receive a mix of $7.00 in cash and 0.450 common units of WES.
3. Cash Election Consideration: In this scenario, securityholders can opt for a flat cash payment of $25.00.

To maintain equity among shareholders, the cash portion of the total consideration is subject to proration, ensuring that the aggregate cash outflow does not surpass $415 million. Should shareholders fail to return a completed election form by the deadline, they will be allocated the common unit consideration automatically.

Other Important Announcements

Moreover, the transaction has moved forward following the expiration of the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act waiting period, which concluded on September 26, 2025. This development is pivotal as it meets a critical condition needed for the acquisition to proceed.

About the Companies

Western Midstream Partners, LP operates as a master limited partnership, with a focus on midstream assets across multiple states, including Texas and New Mexico. They are deeply involved in the gathering and transportation of natural gas, condensate, and produced water, ensuring low-risk, fee-based business operations that minimize exposure to market volatility.

Aris Water Solutions stands at the forefront of environmental infrastructure, working directly with energy companies to manage their water and carbon footprints. Aris delivers comprehensive water handling and recycling solutions, which is crucial in improving sustainability in energy operations, particularly within the highly productive Permian Basin.

Final Notes

As these dates approach, stakeholders are urged to review all related documents carefully, including the proxy statement/prospectus and election form. Proper attendance to these details is essential for participating in this significant transaction that aims to reshape the scope of both companies in the midstream and environmental sectors. The special meeting of stockholders for Aris will further address the merger proposal, scheduled for October 14, 2025.

Stay tuned for updates and make sure your voice is heard in this strategic merger that carries implications for the future of water management and energy sustainability.