Renewi plc Finalizes Sale of Its UK Municipal Operations

Renewi plc Finalizes Sale of Its UK Municipal Operations

Renewi plc, a leading waste-to-product company, is excited to announce the successful completion of the sale of its UK Municipal operations to Biffa Limited, a respected integrated waste management business in the UK. This significant transaction marks a pivotal moment in Renewi's strategy, allowing the company to channel its resources towards enhancing its core recycling operations in Europe.

Strategic Benefits of the Divestment

This divestment presents numerous advantages for Renewi. Firstly, it effectively reduces risks associated with the company's balance sheet. Furthermore, this strategic move is projected to boost the Group’s annual cash flow by an estimated €15 to €20 million, which is a substantial increase that can support future initiatives.

Enhancing Financial Performance

Additionally, the divestment supports expansion by enhancing the EBIT margin by approximately 50 basis points. It is expected to resonate positively on the Group’s overall recycling rates as well. This transaction signifies Renewi’s commitment to optimizing its portfolio, allowing it to focus on its prime recycling business across various regions, such as the Netherlands, Belgium, France, and Portugal.

Integration into Biffa's Operations

The UK Municipal activities, which have now transitioned to Biffa, will benefit from a capital injection of about £125 million. With this structural change, Renewi’s pro forma core net debt to EBITDA ratio is projected to settle at around 2.9x, aligning with prior estimates. Over the medium term, Renewi anticipates a leverage decrease by about 0.4 to 0.5 turns annually, reaching the target of 2.0x.

Leadership Insights

In a statement, Renewi’s CEO, Otto de Bont, expressed satisfaction regarding the divestment, highlighting it as a transformative achievement for the company. He emphasized the importance of this step in elevating their focus on the profitable recycling business in Europe, ultimately aiming to generate more value for shareholders and bolster contributions to the circular economy.

Biffa's Commitment to Sustainability

Biffa’s CEO, Michael Topham, also shared his enthusiasm, welcoming the new colleagues and customers obtained through this acquisition. He reassured stakeholders of a smooth integration process, promising dedication to deliver high-quality services as they assist their new customers in achieving their recycling and carbon reduction goals.

About Renewi and Biffa

Renewi stands as a pioneer in recycling, working diligently to extract value from waste materials instead of resorting to landfilling or incineration. The company plays a crucial role in mitigating resource scarcity by creating circular materials, emphasizing their commitment to a cleaner environment. With a notable recycling rate of 63.2%, Renewi puts back 6.6 million tonnes of low-carbon circular materials annually, significantly supporting climate change mitigation efforts.

Renewi harnesses the latest technological innovations to transform waste into valuable materials, supporting a sustainable future. The company operates across 154 locations in five European countries, employing over 6,000 individuals, underscoring its position as a leader in the waste-to-product sector.

Meanwhile, Biffa has established itself at the forefront of the UK waste industry, boasting over 100 years of experience in sustainable waste management. They are dedicated to enhancing the circular economy and have achieved significant progress through innovative practices, including an extensive carbon capture initiative since 2019, which has resulted in a substantial decrease in their carbon emissions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What prompted Renewi to divest its UK Municipal operations?

Renewi aimed to enhance its focus on core recycling operations and optimize its portfolio strategy, prioritizing growth in sustainable practices.

How much will Renewi's annual cash flow increase post-divestment?

The divestment is projected to increase Renewi's annual cash flow by approximately €15 to €20 million.

What is the anticipated impact on Renewi's balance sheet?

The divestment is expected to reduce risks on Renewi's balance sheet and improve its financial metrics.

What will happen to the UK Municipal operations now under Biffa?

Biffa plans to integrate the UK Municipal activities into its extensive waste management operations while ensuring quality service for their new customers.

What role does Renewi play in the circular economy?

Renewi actively contributes to the circular economy by recycling materials and preventing waste from reaching landfills, thereby mitigating climate change.

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