Reconomy has acquired a majority stake in Munich-based LiBCycle via its Reverse Logistics Group (RLG) brand.
LiBCycle offers a comprehensive logistics solution for defective lithium-ion batteries, covering packaging, transport, storage and hazardous waste handling. With over 30 active cross-docking sites across key European markets, its customer base includes major manufacturers and recyclers.
The acquisition significantly enhances RLG’s logistics infrastructure and tracking capabilities, strengthening its take-back and collection systems. These schemes ensure lithium-ion batteries are properly gathered, processed and routed for recycling, reuse or disposal – supporting compliance and circularity across the supply chain.
RLG operates Producer Responsibility Organisations (PROs) across multiple jurisdictions and product categories. Among them is REBAT, Germany’s largest battery take-back system, with more than 65,500 collection points and over 10,000 producers.
The timing aligns with a critical shift in the European battery landscape. As the first wave of electric vehicles reaches end-of-life, volumes of used batteries are rising sharply. Simultaneously, new EU Battery Regulations are expanding Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) to include industrial and automotive batteries, driving demand for robust recovery infrastructure.
Guy Wakeley, chief executive of Reconomy, said, “This is an important milestone that comes at a critical moment for the European battery circular economy, with growing volumes of end-of-life batteries coming onto the market and regulation evolving rapidly. This transaction positions us well to help more businesses keep valuable materials in circulation, meet compliance requirements, lower costs and emissions, while also strengthening our position in our core international markets.”
