J&B Recycling
J&B Recycling is a prominent recycling and waste management company based in the United Kingdom.
History
Founded in 1998 by Vikki Jackson-Smith, J&B Recycling originated from a parent company involved in the solid fuel business since the 1970s, led by Alan Jackson. The company started in Seaton Carew, initially dealing with solid fuels for power stations and steel works across the UK. The transition to recycling and waste management was initiated by Vikki to diversify the business and preserve jobs following shifts in the solid fuel industry.
Operations
J&B Recycling operates from four sites in the North East of England. The company is the North East’s largest waste management company processing over 200,000 tonnes of waste per annum from both Local Authority and commercial waste streams. Their services contribute significantly to reducing landfill waste and enhancing recycling efforts.
Windermere MRF
J&B Recycling's Windermere Material Recycling Facility (MRF), located in Hartlepool, is the largest of J&B’s MRFs, contributing to around 80% of processing operations across the business. Over the last 5-years, the MRF has increased processing capacity by over 300%, through efficiency improvements, enabling J&B Recycling to deliver sustainable EBITDA levels, double that of the market average.
Baltic Street MRF
J&B Recycling's Baltic Street Material Recycling Facility (MRF), also located in Hartlepool, is the original site of J&B Recycling. A severe fire, caused by an arson attack almost decimated the facility in 2008; however it is still operational today. The Baltic Street MRF is largely responsible for receiving and sorting commercial Dry Mixed Recycling and construction waste.
South Tees Transfer Station with Treatment
J&B Recycling's South Tees Transfer Station with Treatment, dedicated to handling commercial and industrial waste along with some construction waste, stands out with an impressive capacity for managing up to 1 million tonnes of waste. Notably, it also includes provisions for storing hazardous waste, making it a pivotal asset in their comprehensive waste management and recycling operations.
Washington Transfer Station
J&B Recycling's Washington Transfer Station functions exclusively as a transfer hub, focusing on facilitating the efficient handling of kerbside and commercial waste collections from Northern regions. This strategic setup enhances the company's reach and efficiency in managing regional waste collection and recycling efforts.
Expansion and Recognition
The company has evolved from a small family-run business to a nationally recognised entity in recycling and waste management, employing over 200 people. In 2014, J&B Recycling underwent a significant expansion and automation upgrade, funded by growth capital investment from BGF, the UK's largest provider of growth capital. This expansion has enhanced their processing capabilities and presence in the North of England.
Acquisition
On 29th July 2021, Cheltenham based environmental services company, Urbaser Ltd, completed the acquisition of J&B Recycling.
Awards
- Winner of 'Recycling Facility of the Year' at the MRW National Recycling Awards 2022.
- Shortlisted for 'Partnership Excellence - Public/Private sector' alongside Hull City council at the MRW National Recycling Awards 2022.
- Vikki Jackson-Smith, winner of 'Entrepreneur of the Year' 2022 at the Insider Dealmakers Awards.
- Vikki Jackson-Smith, winner of the 'Business Woman of the Year' (medium business) 2021 at the National Business Women's Awards.
- Winner of Company of the Year at the Teesside heat of the North East Business Awards 2020.
- Winner of Quality Recognition Award from the Resources Association in 2018 for producing high quality recyclables.
- Winner of "Business of the Year" in the inaugural Tees Bussinesswomen Awards 2018.
- 'Recycling Firm of the Year' by the international Corporate LiveWire Innovation & Excellence Awards 2018.