Member News
Leading waste management company, J&B Recycling, part of the Urbaser Group, has once again been recognised as an industry leader, as its Windermere Materials Recycling Facility (MRF) in Hartlepool has been shortlisted for the coveted 'Facility of the Year' accolade at the National Recycling Awards. This marks the second consecutive nomination in this category, with J&B Recycling taking home the top honour in 2022.
Since its inception 25 years ago, J&B Recycling has successfully transformed from a small-scale operation to 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.
The Windermere Material Recycling Facility 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.
Vikki Jackson-Smith, Managing Director at J&B Recycling said, “We are incredibly proud of our team’s consistent efforts and relentless pursuit of excellence. The nomination this year, especially following our win in 2022, is a testament to our team’s dedication and hard work.
The company is also beaming with pride as Ashleigh Sweeney, Operations Manager at J&B Recycling, has been shortlisted for the 'Rising Star' award.
“I am genuinely overwhelmed with pride when I reflect upon Ashleigh's journey and accomplishments here at J&B Recycling”, said Vikki. "While J&B is dedicated to fostering a culture that values and nurtures talent, it's the individual brilliance of people like Ashleigh that truly brings this vision to life. We are immensely proud to see her recognised on a national platform."
Ashleigh’s journey started with J&B Recycling when she joined the company as a Weighbridge Office Junior in 2004, aged 16. She progressed through various roles within the organisation, including sales invoicing, purchase ledger, transport coordination, facilities management, and environmental & quality management - culminating in her promotion to Operations Manager in April 2016.
Vikki added, “Having Ashleigh's contribution recognised with a 'Rising Star' nomination is especially gratifying. She embodies the ethos and spirit of J&B Recycling.”
The National Recycling Awards take place on 16th November 2023 at the HAC, London, with over 550 people expected to attend.
