Ellgia acquires Suffolk paper recycler

The sale follows the death of AJ Thompson founder Anthony Thompson in July, who had previously indicated his intention to retire from the business after 45 years.

A.J. Thompson, which has grown into one of East Anglias largest recyclers of commercial waste, currently handles an estimated 700 tonnes of waste paper, plastic, cardboard and paper each week across Cambridgeshire, Suffolk, Essex and other parts of east England.

Ellgia offers collections of dry recyclable material, WEEE, organic and residual waste from firms throughout the east of England.

Commenting on the deal, Ellgia managing director Steve Crook said the acquisition process had been a delicate matter but was delighted members of the Thompson family within the company had agreed to sell.

Acquisition

He said: The acquisition of AJ Thompson is a strategic fit for our business and brings a huge amount of experience and history. The acquisition process was a very delicate matter as Im sure you will appreciate. The staff has done a fantastic job in some very difficult circumstances and should be proud of their achievements. I look forward to working with them.

This now provides us with increased capacity and enhanced service options which can benefit all our customers new and old. We are a genuine alterative to the major companies by offering the full range of waste and recycling services, whilst still having the more personable feel an independent company can bring.

This is a very exciting time at present and I would like to welcome all staff, customers and suppliers to Ellgia Recycling.

Future

Cliff Sadler of A.J. Thompson added: I believe this will provide fantastic opportunities and an exciting future for our business and customers. It was important to me to make sure the successful bidder worked with the same customer service ethos which underpinned A J Thompson over the years. I feel we have that with Ellgia.

We would like to thank both our customers and staff, we are sure they will be in safe hands with Ellgia Recycling.

The further expansion of Ellgias operations comes after it acquired of Carlton Recycling Ltd in Lincolnshire for an undisclosed sum in September 2012 (see letsrecycle.com story).