As part of its energy-saving comminution technology development efforts, Metso has signed an agreement to acquire its long-term partner Swiss Tower Mills Minerals AG (STM).
Previously, Metso had a 15% minority ownership in the company.
The parties have agreed not to disclose the transaction value.
Metso decided to exercise its right of first refusal following the divestment decision of STM’s other shareholders. As a result of the transaction, Metso’s ownership will increase to 100%. Metso has reported its previous 15% shareholding as a non-current financial asset.
Swiss Tower Mills Minerals, based in Baden, Switzerland, specializes in vertical grinding mill solutions. It is best known for the HIGmill grinding mill, which has been exclusively sold and serviced by Metso. This technology is crucial in modern grinding circuits and integral to the development of energy-efficient comminution processes, for example, in combination with Metso HRCe high-pressure grinding rolls. Over the years of cooperation, the use of vertical grinding mill technology has seen significant growth, and the trend is expected to continue.
“We are excited to have the Swiss Tower Mills Minerals team as part of Metso. For many years, we have collaborated in serving customers in the mining industry. Going forward, our customers will continue to benefit from an unrivaled comminution solutions offering, which we will develop further,” said Markku Teräsvasara, president, Minerals business area and Deputy CEO at Metso.
“Being fully convinced that Metso is highly committed to further develop Swiss Tower Mills Minerals as the benchmark of the art of grinding, together with my private shareholder colleagues, we have decided to divest our ownership in the company. Hence, we are pleased to know that the technology we have established together with Metso for the mining industry will remain an essential part of Metso’s flowsheet capability,” added Fritz Moser, board chairman, Swiss Tower Mills Minerals.
The acquisition is subject to the approvals of antitrust authorities. It is expected to be closed in early 2025.
Sources: Metso and Swiss Tower Mills Minerals