European metal recycling industrial expansion

European metal recycling companies are undertaking significant industrial investments to expand capacity and enhance the circular economy.

In Spain, ACIN Recycling Metals is executing a 120 million euro investment to transform metal waste into secondary raw materials, specifically focusing on aluminum and copper. Co-founder Joan Campmajó projects that this expansion could increase annual revenues to between 500 and 600 million euros by 2028 or 2029 and grow the workforce to up to 400 employees.

In Greece, Metlen is investing approximately 25 million euros in EP. AL. ME. to upgrade its aluminum value chain. The project involves installing automated sorting, processing, and melting equipment to better manage complex aluminum scrap flows, including post-consumer scrap. This initiative aims to increase total production to over 250,000 tons and aligns with European Union goals for industrial resilience and strategic autonomy.

Recent financial analysis from JPMorgan has assigned Metlen an ‘Overweight’ rating, suggesting the company has the potential to double its EBITDA from approximately €1 billion to €2 billion in the medium term. This projected growth is expected to be driven by brownfield expansions and greenfield activities in strategic sectors, including circular metals, gallium production, and defense equipment. JPMorgan also noted that Metlen’s exposure to alumina and aluminium is largely hedged through 2028.