VLS Environmental Solutions is scaling its footprint in hazardous waste management with the acquisition of Merichem Company’s Caustic Services business. The deal reinforces its attain within the chemical and petrochemical sectors and refines its target on sustainability-driven waste solutions.
Likewise, the acquisition brings Merichem’s long-standing specialization in useful reuse into the VLS Environmental Solutions portfolio. Founded in 1945, Merichem has spent almost 8-decades diverting hazardous spent caustics from disposal and transform them into reusable commercial inputs for customers around the world.
“This acquisition offers the maximum technically advanced beneficial reuse and caustic waste solutions to industrial and refinery markets,” stated John Magee, CEO of VLS Environmental Solutions. “By incorporating Merichem’s portfolio, we will now provide an unrivaled stage of sustainable solutions for customers across numerous industries.”
For Merichem, the transaction marks the next section of a sustainability-targeted legacy. Chairman and CEO Kendra Lee stated the alignment with VLS strengthens the corporation’s venture and market effect. “We are pleased to combine our heritage grounded in sustainability with VLS’ expansive operational attain to supply even greater value and sustainability to our customers.”
The deal comes as industrial operators confront increasing regulatory pressure and developing sustainability expectations. By incorporating Merichem’s caustic services business, VLS can now provide beneficial reuse as a core option to traditional hazardous waste disposal for pick industrial by-products.
“With the incorporation of Merichem’s caustic services business, VLS can now provide options beyond risky waste disposition to its clients for specific by products streams—such as spent caustics and sulfur-laden by products,” said Chris Lobue, Executive Vice President of VLS’ Hazardous Waste Services division.
“We are thrilled to provide expanded handling alternatives that meet the strict regulatory and operational requirements of our customers within the chemical and petrochemical industries.”
Following the acquisition, Merichem will function as VLS SustainChem within VLS’ Hazardous Waste department.






