First Mile is the current operator of the commercial waste collections in Redbridge borough and took over the council’s commercial waste collections in August 2024.
The acquisition has seen almost 1,500 trade waste agreements transfer over to First Mile, including all trade waste customers of Redbridge council, across localities such as Ilford and Woodford Green.
First Mile has said that it hopes that the deal will relieve the council of cost-pressures to deliver a trade waste service, whilst enabling their customers to benefit from immediate access to over 50 recycling stream collections from First Mile, previously only being able to procure general waste services from the council.
It added that the move comes at an important time to help ensure businesses are compliant with upcoming Simpler Recycling legislation, which will mandate for separate food recycling collection for most businesses next year. This will be accessible to all Redbridge businesses through First Mile.
Joe Allen, chief commercial officer at First Mile, said: “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”
Councillor Jo Blackman, cabinet member for environment and sustainability at Redbridge council, said: “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.”
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