Press release
Paris/Milan, 12 September 2022
LBO France announces the acquisition of a majority stake in Zato, a leader in the design and manufacture of ferrous and non-ferrous metal recycling facilities
Paris/Milan, 12 September 2022 – Gioconda, the Italian subsidiary of LBO France, announced today the acquisition of a majority stake, through the Small Caps Opportunities II fund, in Zato, an Italian company founded in Brescia and a major player in the energy transition for over twenty years. Zato’s founders, Valerio Zanaglio and Alessandra Bresciani, who reinvested in this transaction, will continue to manage the Company. Banca Ifis S.p.A. enters as a co-investor and confirms its role in supporting highly innovative companies committed to the green economy.
Based on a strategy focused on innovation and the development of the circular economy, Zato has a rapidly growing turnover of almost €40 million and employs more than 40 highly skilled people. Through the use of artificial intelligence algorithms and IoT devices, Zato has been able to implement cutting-edge equipment for the recycling industry, a market previously characterised by mature products. With a presence in 25 countries, including the United States and Japan, and with over 85% of its turnover generated internationally, the group has become a world leader in the design and manufacture of ferrous and non-ferrous metal recycling facilities.
Arthur Bernardin, Partner Small Cap, and Chiara Venezia, Investment Director Small Cap at LBO France, said: “This investment represents a tremendous opportunity to position ourselves in the energy transition and fits perfectly with LBO France’s strategy to accelerate on ESG & Climate factors. Our objective will be to support Valerio Zanaglio, Alessandra Bresciani, and their entire team in a new phase of expansion of the company. In particular, we aim to strengthen its presence in new markets and to reinforce its position as an innovation leader through the use of innovative technologies.”
Alessandra Bresciani and Valerio Zanaglio, Founders of Zato, said: “We are extremely pleased to have LBO France at our side to consolidate and accelerate the strong growth that our company has experienced in recent years. The expertise, international vision and strategic support that LBO France will provide to the Zato team will be essential to establish Zato as a global leader in the recycling and green economy.
Zato is the fifth investment in Italy by LBO France’s Small Caps Opportunities funds after Vetroelite, Bluclad, Demas and Astidental Bquadro.