LS-Nikko Copper Adds to its Stake in ERI

Electronic Recyclers International (ERI), headquartered in Fresno, Calif., has announced that it has reached an agreement with LS-Nikko Copper, one of the world’s largest copper smelters, to extend the partnership and investment between the two companies.

As part of the new agreement, LS-Nikko Copper is investing millions of dollars in the electronics recycling company, increasing its minority investment position in ERI. LS-Nikko launched its initial investment and partnership with ERI late last year. In addition investing money with ERI, the partnership has resulted in stronger end markets for the recyclables generated at ERI’s electronics recycling facilities.

In a release, John Shegerian, ERI’s chairman and CEO, says, “It is a tremendous honor and privilege to be extending our relationship with one of the world’s top brands and business families – LS-Nikko Copper and the Koo family (owners of LS-Nikko). Growing and building upon our existing partnership makes sense for the environment and offers even more opportunities for commodity recovery because electronic waste remains the fastest growing solid waste stream in the world today. That this great brand has chosen to build upon its relationship with us makes us particularly proud.”

“Proper waste management is not just a business option any more, but one of the compulsory requirements of mankind,” says S.W. Kang, president and CEO of LS-Nikko Copper. “Everyone should try to reduce waste, and all waste should be managed safely and with the right environmental processes in place. With this in mind, I think we have to consider the recycling business as a public utility rather than a commercial profit center. I believe LS-Nikko Copper and our US Partner ERI :  can continue to make significant developments in waste management and our efforts together will also continue to better society.”