Biffa acquires Keenan Recycling to boost food waste collections

This move comes ahead of an expected rise in market demand and regulatory changes under the Simpler Recycling legislation which mandates the separation of dry recyclables and the separate collection of food waste. 

Founded in 2003, Keenan Recycling, which has its headquarters in Aberdeen, provides food waste collection services to businesses, waste management companies, and councils throughout England, Scotland, and Wales. The company also operates a composting and biofuel facility in Aberdeen.

The deal follows Biffa’s recent acquisitions of L&S Waste Management, Hazrem Environmental and Renewi’s UK municipal business, which the company said are all aimed at bolstering its sustainable management of various waste streams, including construction, hazardous and household waste.

Keenan Recycling currently collects approximately 56,000 tonnes of food waste annually through its 21 depots across the UK.

The company’s fleet of 80 collection vehicles, running on both diesel and HVO fuel, is equipped with advanced route optimisation and bin weighing technology, reducing carbon emissions and enhancing operational efficiency.

Maxine Mayhew, chief operating officer for Biffa’s collections and specialist services (pictured right), said: “Keenan Recycling has built an outstanding reputation as a leader in commercial food waste collections, and we’re delighted to be welcoming the expertise of 140 colleagues into the Biffa family.

“By integrating Keenan Recycling’s offering with our wider infrastructure and resources, we see tremendous potential to enhance our ability to meet the requirements of Simpler Recycling legislation.”

Keenan Recycling’s MD, Grant Keenan (pictured left), highlighted the company’s future potential growth under Biffa’s ownership.

He said: “We’re extremely proud of the remarkable growth we’ve achieved over the past 20 years.

“Biffa brings a wealth of expertise, infrastructure and resources for accelerated growth, and we are confident this acquisition will take our business – and the UK’s food waste recycling efforts – to the next level, helping to further reduce environmental impact and contribute to a more sustainable future.”