- Shareholders have approved the conversion of CHF 84.7 million in debt into company shares. This initiative significantly augments the company’s capital reserves, reinforcing its balance sheet and underlining its commitment to sustained growth and market leadership
- The shareholders also approved an increase in the conditional capital and the introduction of a capital band
Leclanché SA, one of the world’s leading manufacturers of heavy-duty industrial batteries, announced the decisions by the Company’s shareholders on the proposals of the Board of Directors at its 2024 Annual General Meeting (AGM) held at EXPLORiT, Y-Parc, Avenue des Découvertes 1, 1400 Yverdon-les-Bains, Switzerland.
The shareholders have approved a proposal by the Board of Directors to convert existing debt of CHF 84,670,025.30 owed to SEF-Lux[1] and other investment partners into equity through an ordinary capital increase. This restructuring aims to strengthen Leclanché’s balance sheet and increase its capital base, strategically positioning the company to leverage opportunities in the high-growth e-Mobility
The Board of Directors proposition to increase the Company’s share capital in the amount of CHF 18,768,578.90, to take it from CHF 58,611,476.90 to CHF 77’380’055.80 by way of two ordinary capital increases, has been approved.
The five members of the Board, Mr. Lex Bentner, Mr. Marc Lepièce, Mr. Christophe Manset, and Mr. Ali Sherwani have been re-elected. Mr. Lex Bentner has been re-elected as Chairman of the Board of Directors. The members of the Appointment and Remuneration Committee, Mr. Marc Lepièce and Mr. Christophe Manset have been re-elected and Mr. Lex Bentner has been elected.
The shareholders have approved maximum aggregate amount of the Executive Committee’s compensation at CHF 2,350,000.00, for the financial year 2025. The amount remains unchanged for the 2024 financial year.
Lex Bentner, Chairman of the board of directors of Leclanché, said: “We are pleased with the outcomes of our 2024 Annual General Meeting and the support from our shareholders, including the capital increase. The approval to convert CHF 84.7 million of debt into equity marks a pivotal step in strengthening our balance sheet and positions us well for future growth. Our strategic initiatives in the e-Mobility, Stationary, and Specialty Battery businesses are gaining significant traction, with notable project wins and technological advancements. As Leclanché continues to innovate and expand, the company remains committed to delivering sustainable energy solutions that meet the evolving needs of customers and drive long-term value for our stakeholders.”
