Expanding Service Offerings and Advancing Client’s Sustainability Goals

HOUSTON, March 24, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — VLS Environmental Solutions, a leader in environmental services and compliance, has acquired Samex Environmental, a San Diego based provider of hazardous waste fuel blending and recycling services. With state-of-the-art processing facilities in Tijuana, Mexico, and fleet of transportation assets, the acquisition of Samex strengthens VLS’ presence on the West Coast and enhances its portfolio with Samex’s industry expertise and innovative solutions.

“This partnership is a key milestone for VLS as we continue scaling our operations across North America,” said John Magee, CEO of VLS Environmental Solutions. “Samex’s reputation as a leader in hazardous waste fuel blending and recycling coupled with their commitment to sustainability fits seamlessly with our mission to provide innovative waste management solutions. This acquisition demonstrates how we’re evolving to meet growing market demand for integrated environmental services.”

For over 30 years, Samex has been known for its solvent distillation and fuel blending programs. The company’s innovative transborder recycling program, which leverages a network of cement kilns, reduces carbon emissions by keeping waste processing local. “We are thrilled to join forces with VLS,” said Jesus Ojeda, CEO of Samex. “This partnership enables us to scale our operations while continuing the ingenuity and quality that have defined Samex for decades. Together, we’ll take sustainability to the next level.”

Industry insiders recognize the strategic advantages of pairing Samex’s hazardous waste expertise with VLS’ non-hazardous capabilities, which include waste-to-energy processing, industrial services, and wastewater treatment programs. According to Victor Castro, VP of Operations for Samex, “Our collaboration with VLS allows us to not only maintain but amplify the unique services for which Samex is known. Together, we can unlock new opportunities to meet the complex demands of our clients while making tangible impacts on environmental conservancy.”

By integrating Samex, VLS now offers one of the most comprehensive waste management portfolios in the region, serving industries ranging from petrochemicals to pharmaceuticals. Alongside Samex’s recycling services, VLS brings innovative solutions like its Engineered Fuel Program, which converts non-hazardous secondary materials into alternative fuels. This versatility sets the combined company apart as a leader in holistic waste management.

“This acquisition exemplifies how we’re combining best-in-class hazardous and non-hazardous waste management solutions,” commented Keith Cordesman, President of VLS. “The synergies between VLS and Samex will deliver unmatched operational efficiency and sustainability opportunities, particularly for clients on the West Coast seeking to achieve zero-waste goals.”

Samir Camacho, CFO of Samex, highlighted the financial and cultural alignment driving the acquisition. “Joining VLS gives us the operational backing of an established market leader while preserving the values that have made Samex a trusted name. Together, we’ll continue innovating, ensuring we meet the needs of our clients and the environment.”

The combined company has over 1,400 employees and 50+ locations nationwide. The acquisition of Samex Environmental is the fourteenth acquisition by VLS Environmental Solutions. VLS is actively pursuing both organic and inorganic opportunities to continue to expand its environmental solutions capabilities to support the sustainability goals of its clients.

Romero Park P.S. and LEGALENGINEERS, S.C. served as legal advisors to Samex Environmental, and Kirkland & Ellis LLP and White & Case, S.C. served as legal advisors to VLS Environmental Solutions and I Squared Capital.

About VLS Environmental SolutionsVLS Environmental Solutions is a leader in sustainability solutions, with three divisions providing industry-leading services. The company’s Waste Services division provides customized waste processing solutions for hazardous and non-hazardous industrial and commercial waste, including landfill diversion and sustainability programs, solidification of liquid waste, recycling, wastewater treatment, and waste sequestration. The company’s Railcar Cleaning and Repair Services division provides specialty cleaning services for difficult-to-clean products, including chemicals, hardened materials, and pressurized gases, and comprehensive repair services for certified full-service repairs, tank car qualifications, and maintenance. The company’s Marine Services division offers state-of-the-art barge cleaning, repair, and gas-free facilities for various chemical solvents and downstream petroleum products. VLS has over 1,200 employees in 50+ locations across North America. VLS is a portfolio company of I Squared Capital. For more information about VLS, visit https://www.vlses.com/. 

About Samex Environmental:
Samex Environmental is a trusted leader in hazardous waste recycling, offering advanced solutions such as solvent distillation, flammable liquids and solids recycling, and fuel blending. Based in Tijuana, Samex is committed to sustainable practices that reduce environmental impact and promote resource conservation. For more information about Samex, visit https://samex-env.com/.

SOURCE VLS Environmental Solutions