EPC Groupe and SSE enter exclusive talks to create a European civil explosives leader

A transformative move is unfolding in the European civil explosives sector. EPC Groupe and SSE Holding SA have entered exclusive negotiations to combine their civil explosives and drilling and blasting activities. If completed, the transaction would significantly strengthen EPC’s European footprint and position the combined group among the global leaders in the sector.

Transaction structure and shareholding

Under the proposed structure, SSE would contribute 100% of its civil explosives operations in exchange for newly issued EPC Groupe shares, becoming the second-largest shareholder with nearly 25% of the combined entity’s capital. The transaction reflects a long-term industrial partnership built on strategic complementarity rather than financial opportunism.

Geographic complementarity and industrial fit

SSE, with more than 125 years of history and a strong presence across Central and Northern Europe, operates in markets where EPC Groupe is not currently active, including Switzerland, Germany, Poland, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Romania, and Sweden. The geographic and operational fit is clear. Both companies share a strong service-based model in drilling and blasting, a segment that represents a substantial share of value creation

Joining the global Top 5

The ambition goes beyond European consolidation. The combined group intends to pursue sustained organic growth and acquisitions, with the stated objective of joining the Top 5 global civil explosives players. With strong cash flow generation and a reinforced capital structure, the transaction is designed to support expanded R&D efforts and long-term industrial growth.

Leadership vision

Leadership from both sides has made the strategic vision explicit. Olivier Obst, Chairman and CEO of EPC Groupe, stated: „We are particularly enthusiastic about proposing this combination, which would enable EPC Groupe to reach a new stage in its development, building on the remarkable work carried out by SSE over many years. The combination of our teams and their expertise, our technological innovations, and our geographic and commercial footprint would significantly strengthen our position in the civil explosives market. It would also provide us with a financial structure enabling us to increase our R&D efforts while supporting the strong growth of our customers.,”

Raymond Loretan, Chairman of SSE Group, added: „The complementarity of our expertise, locations, and teams paves the way for the creation of a leading global player. Together, we could reach a new milestone in the consolidation of the sector and sustainably support major players in quarries, construction, and mining.”

Timeline and next steps

If finalized, subject to due diligence, regulatory approvals, and shareholder validation, the transaction is expected to close in Q3 2026.

For stakeholders across mining, quarrying, infrastructure, and underground works, this proposed combination signals more than scale. It signals strategic alignment around innovation, financial resilience, and long-term industrial leadership.