Update: Circular Services acquires Waste Recycling Inc.

Circular Services, based in New York City, has acquired Waste Recycling Inc. (WRI), headquartered in Montgomery, Alabama.

WRI provides recycling services to commercial and industrial generators, operating a fleet of more than 40 power units and 300 trailers throughout the Southeast, according Circular Services, complimenting its hauling and collection operations across major markets in the western, southern and central regions of the United States.

The addition of WRI expands Circular Services’ capabilities in the region, allowing the company to provide materials management solutions to more commercial, industrial and residential customers across the Southeast.

"WRI is a valuable addition to Circular Services, given its established expertise in materials recovery, recognized leadership and dedicated workforce," Circulare Services tells Recycling Today Media Group. "Its employees bring valuable industry experience, operational knowledge and a strong commitment to environmental responsibility. With mature recycling facilities, proven operational efficiency and a strong regional presence in Alabama, Waste Recycling aligns well with Circular Services’ mission to enhance circular economy initiatives. Their ability to process diverse recyclable materials and implement innovative waste diversion strategies made them a valuable addition as Circular Services expands its reach and impact across the United States." 

Founded in 1943, WRI has a strong, long-standing reputation as a reliable recycling partner for the major industrial sectors of the region, focused on waste reduction and minimizing waste disposal costs for its customers, Circular Services says in a news release announcing the purchase. WRI operates recycling facilities in Montgomery, Anniston, Tuscaloosa and Opelika, Alabama, that are designed to process a diverse range of materials, including paper, plastics, metals and specialized postindustrial materials.

Photo courtesy of Circular Services

Circular Services says WRI's plants are well-equipped to handle various recycling needs efficiently. "They utilize advanced processing technology to manage materials such as paper, plastics, metals and other recyclables. Each facility is designed to optimize waste diversion and sustainability efforts, ensuring that recyclable materials are properly processed and prepared for reuse. Additionally, the company prioritizes environmental responsibility by implementing eco-friendly practices and adhering to industry regulations."

The acquisition positions Circular Services to better serve the Southeast’s growing industrial sector, particularly automotive manufacturing, according to the company, which adds that WRI provides recycling services to some of the world’s largest automakers.

“WRI’s operations and expertise will accelerate Circular Services’ mission to build local and sustainable supply chains as well as enhance our ability to recover valuable materials at scale,” Circular Services CEO Ron Gonen says. “For more than 80 years, WRI has earned a reputation for reliability and excellence, thanks to the dedication and hard work of its team. Their commitment to service and sustainability has been the foundation of WRI’s success, and we are proud to welcome them to Circular Services, where their expertise and passion for recycling will continue to make a meaningful impact.”

“WRI is centrally located in a region where Circular Services operates recycling facilities today,” adds Todd Shumaker, president of commodities at Circular Services. “The addition of their expertise and relationships in the region will allow us to offer expanded recycling services, greater convenience for customers and better environmental outcomes for local communities.”

The WRI acquisition is the most recent in Circular Services' expansion efforts. Earlier in March, the company broke ground on a 120,000-square-foot, $61 million recycling facility in Frisco, Texas, that will serve Frisco, McKinney and the surrounding Dallas metroplex area. The company has 25 operating locations that provide materials management services to municipalities and businesses across the country.  

*This story was updated April 3, 2025, to add additional details provided by Circular Services about the acquisition.