Reconomy Acquires Vermilion to Bolster US Expansion Strategy

Circular economy specialist Reconomy has announced its strategic acquisition of Vermilion, a US-based post-consumer product take-back company. The acquisition marks a significant step in expanding Reconomy’s capabilities and customer reach within the US market. Established in 1976 and headquartered in Sauk Rapids, Minnesota, Vermilion is recognized for its proprietary technology platform and patented reverse logistics packaging and kiosk collection system. The company specializes in tracking and tracing materials from collection through to reuse or recycling, which aligns well with Reconomy’s tech-driven and people-powered approach.

This acquisition is set to enhance Reconomy’s Comply Loop division, which currently serves over 15,000 global customers, including several Fortune 500 companies. By integrating Vermilion’s advanced take-back systems and technologies, Reconomy will gain specialist capabilities that will bolster its growing portfolio in the take-back solutions market.

Vermilion operates several notable brands, including ASC, which produces equipment for the safe collection of post-consumer materials, and ARXG, which focuses on customized design, production, and end disposition solutions. Additionally, its PPM division functions as a full-service marketing company. These offerings will complement Reconomy’s existing services and add value to its operations.

This acquisition follows Reconomy’s first US deal, the purchase of Lincoln Waste Solutions on August 12, 2024, further solidifying the company’s presence in North America. Based in Windsor, Connecticut, Lincoln Waste Solutions provides comprehensive waste and recycling management services. Reconomy’s North American operations also include the Reverse Logistics Group, a Comply Loop brand that delivers kerbside recycling technology in Ontario, Canada, and assists producers with extended producer responsibility compliance.

Reconomy CEO Guy Wakeley commented, “Following the recent acquisition of Lincoln, this transaction is another important strategic milestone for Reconomy as we accelerate our growth plans in the US. It brings new customers, technology, and specialist capabilities in the fast-growing take-back solutions market to our existing Comply operations in North America. We welcome the Vermilion team to Reconomy and look forward to working closely with them to achieve our mission of enabling the circular economy.”

Patrick Wiedemann, Divisional CEO of Comply at Reconomy, stated, “Vermilion brings valuable expertise in the take-back solutions market, a rapidly growing area as we expand our footprint across the US and North America. With environmental compliance becoming increasingly demanding on a global scale, brands face more complex challenges. It’s crucial for us to continuously enhance our services to help businesses successfully navigate this evolving and intricate landscape.”

Mike Pietrini, CEO of Vermilion, expressed, "We’re thrilled to join Reconomy during this period of rapid and sustainable international growth. Our specialized expertise in the expanding take-back solutions market aligns perfectly with Reconomy’s diverse customer offering. There are numerous opportunities for collaboration with Reconomy’s Comply Loop division as we work together to lead in environmental compliance management, take-back, collection, and circularity solutions for end-of-life materials."

With the addition of Vermilion, Reconomy continues to strengthen its position as a leader in circular economy solutions, expanding both its geographic footprint and service offerings in the rapidly evolving take-back and recycling industry.