VLS Environmental Solutions acquires California hazardous waste services provider

VLS Environmental Solutions, a Houston-based environmental services and compliance company, has acquired Samex Environmental Services, a Chula Vista, California-based provider of hazardous waste fuel blending and recycling services. With processing facilities in Tijuana, Mexico, and a fleet of transportation assets, VLS says the acquisition of Samex strengthens its presence on the West Coast and enhances its portfolio.

“This partnership is a key milestone for VLS as we continue scaling our operations across North America,” VLS CEO John Magee says. “Samex’s reputation as a leader in hazardous waste fuel blending and recycling coupled with their commitment to sustainability fits seamlessly with our mission to provide innovative waste management solutions. This acquisition demonstrates how we’re evolving to meet growing market demand for integrated environmental services.”

For more than 30 years, Samex has provided solvent distillation and fuel blending programs. The company’s transborder recycling program, which leverages a network of cement kilns, reduces carbon emissions by keeping waste processing local, according to VLS.

“We are thrilled to join forces with VLS,” Samex CEO Jesus Ojeda says. “This partnership enables us to scale our operations while continuing the ingenuity and quality that have defined Samex for decades. Together, we’ll take sustainability to the next level.”

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“Our collaboration with VLS allows us to not only maintain but amplify the unique services for which Samex is known,” says Victor Castro, vice president of operations at Samex. “Together, we can unlock new opportunities to meet the complex demands of our clients while making tangible impacts on environmental conservancy.”

By integrating Samex, VLS says its waste management portfolio has become more comprehensive, serving industries ranging from petrochemicals to pharmaceuticals. Alongside Samex’s recycling services, VLS brings solutions like its Engineered Fuel Program, which converts nonhazardous secondary materials into alternative fuels.

“This acquisition exemplifies how we’re combining best-in-class hazardous and nonhazardous waste management solutions,” VLS President Keith Cordesman says. “The synergies between VLS and Samex will deliver unmatched operational efficiency and sustainability opportunities, particularly for clients on the West Coast seeking to achieve zero-waste goals.”

The combined company has more than 1,400 employees and more than 50 locations nationwide. The acquisition of Samex Environmental is the fourteenth acquisition by VLS Environmental Solutions. VLS says it is actively pursuing both organic and inorganic opportunities to continue to expand its environmental solutions capabilities to support the sustainability goals of its clients.

Romero Park P.S. and Legalengineers S.C. served as legal advisors to Samex Environmental and Kirkland & Ellis LLP and White & Case S.C. served as legal advisors to VLS Environmental Solutions and I Squared Capital.