Derichebourg Signs Contract for the Acquisition of Scholz Recycling with a Turnover of 1.6 Billion Euros
Derichebourg SA has signed a binding acquisition contract to acquire 100% of Scholz Recycling Group, a major player in metal recycling in Europe. This strategic move aims to strengthen the group's position as a global leader in metal waste recycling and to support the decarbonization of the European steel industry.
A Leading Player in Metal Recycling in Europe
Founded in 1872, Scholz Recycling boasts a robust operational portfolio with a turnover of 1.6 billion euros in 2025. The group operates in Germany, Czech Republic, Poland, and Slovenia, supplemented by joint ventures in Austria and Romania. In 2025, Scholz marketed over 3 million tons of materials (ferrous metals, non-ferrous metals, paper, cardboard, and plastics) and employs more than 3,500 staff. The group runs over 180 sites in total, including joint ventures, with a network of more than 100 recycling centers. This infrastructure will enable Derichebourg to expand its presence in territories where it is currently not or minimally present and to meet the growing demand from European steelmakers who are replacing their blast furnaces with electric arc furnaces.
Competitive Process and Healthy Financial Structure
The acquisition follows a competitive tender process conducted by independent trustees (Receivers). Scholz Recycling is a company strictly in bonis, with autonomous governance and a healthy financial structure, its operations being shielded from the difficulties faced by its parent company, Chiho Environmental Group Limited. Derichebourg's selection as the highest bidder reflects the strength of its financial balance sheet and the relevance of its commercial positioning and industrial strategy. The transaction will be fully funded by Derichebourg's existing cash resources and confirmed lines of credit (bridge financing provided by BNP Paribas). The group emphasizes that the debt ratio will remain within prudent limits and that the acquisition should be accretive to net earnings per share in the medium term, thanks to the development of Scholz and the identified synergies.
Expected Closing in the Second Half of 2026
The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions, including approvals for merger control and foreign investments. The final completion is expected to occur in the second half of 2026. The group notes that Chiho retains the ability, until the final closing of the transaction, to satisfy secured creditors in order to obtain the release of securities.
