VLS Environmental acquires Merichem caustics firm

VLS Environmental Solutions, Houston, has acquired the caustic services division of Merichem Co., expanding VLS’ reach in the chemical and petrochemical sectors.

Merichem, also based in Houston, has worked to create disposal solutions for the chemical industry since 1945, diverting hazardous waste streams into applications for reuse for industrial clients worldwide.

“This acquisition provides the most technically advanced beneficial reuse and caustic waste solutions to industrial and refinery markets,” VLS CEO John Magee says. “By integrating Merichem’s portfolio, we can now offer an unmatched level of sustainable solutions for clients across multiple industries.”

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“We are thrilled to combine our heritage grounded in sustainability with VLS’ expansive operational reach to deliver even greater value and sustainability to our customers,” Merichem Chairman and CEO Kendra Lee says.

Under Lee’s leadership, VLS says Merichem has remained rooted in a philosophy of environmental stewardship, performance and commitment to customer service.

Merichem’s caustic services business will be renamed VLS SustainChem and will be incorporated into VLS’ hazardous waste division.

This acquisition represents the sale of Merichem’s operational assets. The company sold its technology business unit, Merichem Technologies, to Black Bay Energy Capital in 2023.

As regulatory demands and sustainability goals continue to mount for industrial clients, VLS says the integration of Merichem’s caustic services business will allow the company to add beneficial reuse to its portfolio when handling industrial by-products.

"With the integration of Merichem’s caustic services business, VLS can now offer options beyond hazardous waste disposition to its customers for specific by-product streams—such as spent caustics and sulfur-laden byproducts,” says Chris Lobue, executive vice president of VLS’ hazardous waste services division. “We are excited to offer expanded handling options that meet the strict regulatory and operational needs of our clients in the chemical and petrochemical industries.”

This action continues a string of acquisitions by VLS, including its purchase of Phoenix-based SRE Environmental in 2023, of Virginia-based Clearfield MMG in 2024 and of California-based Samex Environmental last year.