The Japanese Marubeni Corporation buys Factorenergia for 204 million euros

BarcelonaSmartestEnergy, the British energy subsidiary of Japanese giant Marubeni Corporation, has closed the acquisition of a majority stake in Factorenergia for 204 million euros. Specifically, the Asian company has taken over 85% of the Catalan energy company, whose founder, Emili Rousaud, will retain the remaining 15%, although until now he owned 25% of the shares.

Thus, the purchase by SmartestEnergy means the exit from the shareholder structure of the Ontario Pension Board and JZI funds, which held 50% and 25% of the company, respectively. Rousaud, who in 2021 was a pre-candidate for the Barça elections, will continue as CEO of Factoenergia and will join the executive committee of Smartest Energy, as announced in a statement by the two companies.

Based in Barcelona and founded in 1999, Factorenergia is one of the main More presence

Based in Barcelona and founded in 1999, Factorenergia is one of the main independent electricity and gas suppliers in the country. The acquisition of 85% of the company by the subsidiary of Marubeni Corporation has placed the total valuation of the company at 240 million euros. Currently, according to Factorenergia, it has more than 400 professionals and generates annual revenues exceeding 600 million euros. It also has subsidiaries in Mexico, Portugal, Chile, and Brazil.

While the Japanese parent Marubeni Corporation encompasses a wide range of business activities, such as agriculture, metals, energy, chemicals, energy services, or aerospace, the British SmartestEnergy is a company established in 2000 as an energy buyer for independent producers. It wasn't until 2008 that they began their retail activity and currently operate in the United Kingdom, Australia, and the United States.

SmartestEnergy has more than 900 employees in the countries where it has a presence. With the purchase of Factorenergia, the company expands its activity to the Iberian Peninsula and Latin America.