Ecopreneur Chile S.A. (“Ecopreneur”) is a Latin American supplier of water and wastewater treatment solutions and Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) capabilities. Since its foundation in Chile in 1996, Ecopreneur has expanded its operations progressively in neighbouring markets Peru and Colombia, allowing the company to grow its revenue steadily to a projected US$20 million in 2019.

To support further growth, Ecopreneur’s owners were looking for a strategic buyer interested in developing business in Latin America and capable of driving value creation and growth for the company.

Through Amane Advisors’ deep understanding of the Latin American water market, transactional expertise and strong networks with strategic investors, we supported Ecopreneur shareholders through a sale process, involving developing the investment thesis, conducting initial screening and approach of investors, due diligence, negotiation and closing of the deal.

The acquisition of Ecopreneur by German family office Skion GmbH (“Skion”) took place on 7th October 2019. Thierry Noel, Founding Partner of Amane Advisors adds, “Ecopreneur has a very strong and unique position in its regional market and a good management team. When approached by the sellers, we were rapidly convinced that a global selling process was the best way forward. We are thrilled with the outcome which delivers value for the sellers and has a strong strategic rationale for Skion. The water market is strong right now for good assets with a clear strategy.”

Through the acquisition, Skion is able to establish a growth platform in Latin America with Ecopreneur’s strong market presence in water and wastewater treatment among mining, food & beverage and municipal clients in Chile, Peru and Colombia. Skion is also keen on capturing synergies with its other portfolio companies in the water sector by increasing customers’ share of wallet via cross-selling of solutions.

For Ecopreneur, the backing of Skion also enables them to pursue larger projects which they previously were not capable to bid for. Pursuing wastewater reuse opportunities is particularly high on their agenda, having built one of the first reuse plants in Chile about 12 years ago.

About Ecopreneur Chile S.A.
Founded in 1996 in Chile, Ecopreneur provides engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) capabilities and solutions for Drinking Water Treatment, Process Water Treatment, Industrial Sewage Water Treatment, Wastewater Treatment and Desalination. Ecopreneur serves both municipal and industrial client and has branches in Chile, Peru and Colombia.

About Amane Advisors & Partners Ltd.
Amane Advisors is a global advisory firm dedicated to the water industry bringing services to its clients on all matters relating to their growth. Its clients range from multinationals, institutions and investors, to innovative start-ups and technology companies. Services include Strategy, Market Intelligence, Commercialization, M&A, PPP advisory and Digital.