We're excited to announce that we have recently acquired the commercial waste collection arm of Redbridge Council. This acquisition marks a significant milestone for us and our work with local councils across London and the UK. 

We’re pleased to be welcoming over 1,500 businesses to First Mile across the Redbridge borough including Ilford and Woodford Green. 

Why the change?

Taking on Redbridge Council’s trade waste services relieves the council of the growing costs of providing these services, whilst enabling their customers to benefit from the high service and wide range of recycling solutions First Mile offers.  

Customers previously could only procure general waste services from the council, and now have access to over 50 recycling and waste management services.

This comes at an important time as it will help ensure businesses get compliant with upcoming Simpler Recycling legislation. The changes will mean businesses must recycle food waste, as well as a range of other items such as glass, plastics and cardboard.

Cllr Jo Blackman, Cabinet Member for Environment and Sustainability at Redbridge said about the acquisition “First Mile Limited were chosen after an extensive evaluation process. Due to ongoing cost pressures, we were happy to find a buyer who could help our business customers comply with upcoming legislation, and support them with high service levels” 

And our Chief Commerical Officer; Joe Allen shared his thoughts; “We are thrilled to have completed this purchase and to welcome Redbridge customers to First Mile. We look forward to helping businesses recycle and ensuring we deliver hassle-free service to businesses across the borough”  

What does this mean for businesses in the Redbridge borough? 

If you're a business based in Redbridge who recycled their waste with Redbridge Council you will now have your waste and recycling collections from First Mile (effective as of 1st August 2024). 
 
You’ll now have access to First Mile's range of waste and recycling services and solutions including: 

  • Increased recycling options: We offer over 50 recycling streams, giving Redbridge Council customers access to a wide range of specialist recycling streams.
  • Easy compliance: We'll assist you in meeting the upcoming Simpler Recycling legislation, ensuring you're prepared for next year's changes. 
  • Hassle-free service: Our dedicated team is committed to providing you with exceptional customer service and reliable waste collection. 
  • Industry-leading reporting: View and download your waste data, track your scope 3 and end destinations in detail.
  • Online customer portal: Order more waste services, easily view and download your waste transfer notes.

Why should businesses choose First Mile? 

First Mile makes it easy for UK businesses to recycle and improve corporate sustainability. 

  • B Corp Certification: As one of the few B Corps in the sector, we're dedicated to operating ethically and sustainably.
  • Innovative Solutions: We're always looking for ways to improve our services, including the use of electric vehicles and cargo bikes for zero-emission collections. Read our 2023 Impact Report here.
  • Strong Reputation: With over 30,000 UK locations served, we’re rated Excellent on TrustPilot we have a proven track record of delivering high recycling rates and efficient waste management.

Get in touch for a tailor-fit quote or sign up online today

Why should councils partner with First Mile?  

  • Unlock revenue & reduce costs ; work with a partner who can reduce overheads and increase operational efficiencies.
  • Increase customer satisfaction & provide quality service whilst reducing complexity at council level.
  • Smart integration & enforcement; utilise industry-leading waste tracking solutions to improve hotspots.
  • Flexible models tailored to your needs; from full sale or acquisition to a back-office license model. 

Book a no obligation discovery meeting by emailing councils@thefirstmile.co.uk or call us on 0330 300 3448