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Trafigura set to expand into biofuels sector with Greenergy acquisition

Trafigura has reached an agreement to acquire the biodiesel producer and major road fuel supplier for an undisclosed sum and subject to customary conditions and approvals.

Facility expansion extends feedstock range for biodiesel production.

Initially founded in 1992 to supply diesel with lower emissions, Greenergy is today one of Europe’s largest suppliers of biofuels with manufacturing plants in the UK and the Netherlands and a leading distributor of road fuels in the UK.

The acquisition of Greenergy presents a unique opportunity for Trafigura to strengthen its fuel supply operations in Europe and to add the physical production and distribution of renewable fuels to its growing biofuels business.  Post acquisition, the company will continue to be led by its current management team.

Combining the commercial and market expertise of the two businesses will add value to existing operations, and enable the company to explore opportunities for expansion into new markets and products.

Increasing demand for alternative fuels

In addition, Trafigura’s financial strength will provide a robust platform for growth, helping to drive Greenergy’s strategic initiatives and its decarbonisation plan. The acquisition will significantly expand Trafigura’s biofuels and fuel supply capabilities and position the company to capitalise on increasing demand for alternative energy sources.

Trafigura’s diversification into the biofuels sector marks a notable shift from its traditional operations in crude oil and oil products. While the company transported over a million tons of biofuels in 2023, its crude oil shipments exceeded 136 million tons.

Ben Luckock, Global Head of Oil at Trafigura, said: “As Europe transitions to a lower carbon future and the refining industry adapts to changing market dynamics, companies like Greenergy become increasingly important.  This acquisition represents a major expansion of our existing biofuels and fuel supply capabilities, adding Greenergy’s production and distribution expertise and supporting customers’ transition to cleaner, more sustainable fuel options.”

Christian Flach, Chief Executive of Greenergy, said: “Trafigura brings additional understanding of global supply chains and energy markets and a track record of investing in renewables. This will further enhance our offer to customers through the energy transition and beyond.”