Ecobat Announces Sale of German and Austrian Operations to Clarios

Deal News | Aug 18, 2025 | PR Newswire Cision Ecobat

Ecobat, a global leader in battery recycling, has entered into a definitive agreement to sell its battery recycling and specialty lead operations in Germany and Austria to Clarios, a major supplier of advanced energy storage solutions. The sale includes Ecobat's facilities in Freiberg and Braubach, Germany, and the site in Arnoldstein, Austria. The transaction is anticipated to close in early 2026, pending regulatory approvals. Rothschild & Co is serving as financial advisor and White & Case as legal advisor for Ecobat. The divestiture aligns with Ecobat's strategy to refocus on its core battery recycling and global lithium-ion battery business, following previous sales in France, Italy, and in battery distribution. Clarios is expected to leverage its expertise to enhance these operations' success in Europe.

Sectors

  • Battery Recycling and Energy Storage
  • Automotive and Mobility Solutions
  • Renewable Energy and Sustainability

Geography

  • Germany – The article discusses the sale of operations located in Freiberg and Braubach, Germany.
  • Austria – Included in the transaction is the operation located in Arnoldstein, Austria.
  • United States – Ecobat is headquartered in Dallas, USA, making this geography relevant.

Industry

  • Battery Recycling and Energy Storage – This industry is relevant as the article discusses the sale of Ecobat's battery recycling and lead operations to Clarios, a leader in energy storage solutions.
  • Automotive and Mobility Solutions – Clarios is identified as a major player in the automotive battery industry, making this classification relevant.
  • Renewable Energy and Sustainability – Ecobat's focus on sustainable recycling solutions and Clarios' commitment to sustainable practices align with this sector.

Financials

  • N/A – The article does not disclose specific financial amounts related to the transaction.

Participants

NameRoleTypeDescription
EcobatTarget CompanyCompanyEcobat is the world's largest recycler of batteries, operating in Europe and the USA.
ClariosBidding CompanyCompanyClarios is a global leader in advanced low-voltage battery technologies for mobility, owning the VARTA brand.
Rothschild & CoFinancial AdvisorCompanyProvides financial advisory services for the transaction.
White & CaseLegal AdvisorCompanyActs as the legal advisor for Ecobat in this transaction.
Tom SlabePresident and CEO of EcobatPersonPlays a key role in the announcement and overarching strategy of Ecobat.