Ecobat, a global leader in battery recycling, announced the successful completion of the sale of its battery recycling and specialty lead operations in Germany and Austria to Clarios, a global leader in advanced energy storage solutions. The transaction encompasses Ecobat’s facilities in Freiberg and Braubach, Germany, as well as the Arnoldstein operation in Austria.
This sale, together with previously completed divestitures in France, Italy, and the United Kingdom, marks Ecobat’s exit from the European lead market, along with the completion of a multi-transaction repositioning of its Resources division.
“The sale of our Germany and Austria operations is a defining milestone for Ecobat. With our European lead footprint now fully transitioned to new ownership, Ecobat is positioned as a focused North American platform. We will continue to pursue opportunities to maximize value for shareholders as we build on that foundation,” said Tom Slabe, President and Chief Executive Officer of Ecobat.
Slabe added, “Clarios’ expertise and strategic vision offer a strong foundation for the continued success of these operations in Germany and Austria. We’re confident they will continue to foster and enhance the valued relationships we have built with our employees, customers, and suppliers across Europe.”
Rothschild & Co acted as financial advisor, while White & Case served as the legal advisor to Ecobat on the transaction.
As the world’s largest recycler of batteries, Ecobat delivers innovative solutions for battery recycling, resource recovery and energy storage by responsibly managing valuable materials essential to modern life.
On the other hand, Clarios is the global leader in advanced, low-voltage battery technologies for mobility and owner of the brand VARTA in the automotive sector. The companies’ batteries and smart solutions power nearly every type of vehicle and are found in one of three cars on the road today.
“With around 18,000 employees in over 100 countries, Clarios bring deep expertise to our Aftermarket and OEM partners, and reliability, safety and comfort to everyday lives,” Ecobat concluded.