Private equity firm Tide Rock Holdings has recently acquired Phoenix-based Global Electronics Recycling (GER), adding to its existing portfolio company, Full Circle Electronics. This acquisition is expected to bring new customers in the aerospace and defense sectors as GER integrates with Full Circle Electronics, according to the CEO of the latter company, Tracey Haslam.
The specific financial details of the transaction were not disclosed, but it is clear that Tide Rock sees great potential in the electronics recycling industry. Tide Rock previously acquired Full Circle Electronics in 2022 and Sipi’s ITAD assets in 2023, with American Recycling Holdings being their first recycling company acquisition in 2021.
One of the key reasons for Tide Rock’s interest in GER was the company’s expertise in the aerospace and defense space. Haslam highlighted GER’s Phoenix location as a strategic advantage, being situated in the heart of the sector. Additionally, GER’s experience in handling solar panels presents significant opportunities for growth and learning for Full Circle Electronics.
Solar panel refurbishing and recycling are seen as a burgeoning market, especially as panels reach the end of their lifespan in the next decade. Haslam envisions doubling capacity in the next few years to become a 10-million-pound-a-year processor, ensuring consistent results for customers and accommodating future growth.
Moreover, GER’s location in Phoenix helps to reduce the carbon footprint of end-of-life electronics, as it is close to both the industry it serves and heavily populated areas. This proximity allows for more efficient transportation of materials and services, addressing customer concerns about environmental impact.
In terms of trends in the industry, Haslam emphasizes the importance of listening to customers to understand evolving needs and challenges. Data destruction and privacy are top priorities for customers, leading Full Circle Electronics to invest in its own transportation fleet to secure the chain of custody for sensitive devices.
The rise of AI and the need for higher processing capacity are also key considerations for the company, as well as the focus on extending the life of devices rather than breaking them down into components. With global electronics recycling rates still low and increasing volumes of devices reaching the end of their useful life, there is a significant opportunity to educate users and improve recycling rates.
Full Circle Electronics actively participates in recycling education programs, community collection events, and consumer electronics shipping programs to make recycling more accessible and convenient for individuals. By engaging with the community and promoting responsible recycling practices, the company aims to make a positive impact on the environment and encourage more people to recycle their electronics responsibly.