Vertex Energy files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy

Vertex Energy Inc. announced Sept. 24 that it has entered into a restructuring support agreement (RSA) with support of the company’s term-loan lenders.

To facilitate the transactions contemplated under the RSA, including exploration of a sale transaction, the company commenced Chapter 11 cases in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of Texas.

“As we enter this next phase of our restructuring process through a formal proceeding, we are appreciative of the continued support from our lenders,” said Benjamin Cowart, the president and CEO of Vertex.

“Their confidence in our business, as demonstrated by this ongoing collaboration, reinforces the critical role Vertex plays in the specialty-refinery space,” he added.

“We want to thank our employees for continuing to be fully engaged as we go through this process and prioritizing safety and customer satisfaction above all else,” Cowart said. “Together with our lenders, we feel confident this decision provides the best pathway toward future success.”

Seth Bullock of Alvarez & Marsal, the chief restructuring officer, added, “We have gained significant momentum with the partnership of Vertex’s lenders over the last several months and believe the restructuring support agreement and related milestones will allow the company to initiate a fresh start and improve long-term value as it singularly concentrates on strengthening its foundation for continued growth and stability.”

The company said it has filed customary first-day motions and plans to operate its business in the ordinary course as it explores a holistic restructuring strategy pursuant to the terms of the RSA.

To fund this process and continue operating in the ordinary course, the consenting term-loan lenders have agreed to provide the company with an additional $80 million “debtor-in-possession” financing facility subject to certain terms and the satisfaction of certain conditions.

The company has also filed a Chapter 11 plan and bidding procedures and anticipates confirming its Chapter 11 plan by the end of the year.

Kirkland & Ellis is serving as restructuring counsel.

Bracewell LLP is restructuring co-counsel.

Perella Weinberg Partners is serving as the investment banker.

Alvarez & Marsal is the chief restructuring officer and financial advisor to the company.