Ecobat Divests South Africa Business to AutoX.
Ecobat, the global leader in battery recycling, and AutoX Proprietary Limited are pleased to confirm that Ecobat has completed the divestiture of its operations in southern Africa, Zimco Group Proprietary Limited, to AutoX.
Comprised of seven businesses operating in a diverse range of markets across three countries, Zimco Group includes Fry’s Metals, Castle Lead Works, Associated Additives, Zimco Metals, G&W Mineral Resources, Dutton Plastics, and Sondor Performance Foams. Investec Bank Limited acted as financial advisor and White & Case acted as legal advisor to Ecobat on the transaction. Bowman Gilfillan acted as legal advisors to AutoX, with Webber Wentzel advisors in respect of the competition regulatory approvals.
Marcus Randolph, Ecobat’s CEO, said:
I would like to thank the Zimco Group management and workforce across southern Africa for their service and commitment. This divestment advances Ecobat’s strategic initiative to focus on our core business of battery recycling in North America and Europe.
Glenn Geldenhuis, AutoX’s CEO, said:
The acquisition of Fry’s Metals, through the acquisition of the Zimco Group, forms part of AutoX’s strategic intent regarding its vertical backward integration and enables AutoX to have greater control over its supply chain in a volatile market.
“with the added benefit of providing opportunities to improve overall efficiencies and enhance control over its manufacturing processes. Fry’s Metals has to-date been a long-standing supplier and lead recycling partner to AutoX.”
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Ecobat Divests South Africa Business to AutoX. source