Avondale Foods Transforms On-Site Waste Management
Local food manufacturer Avondale Foods recently began an ambitious waste-processing project. By installing new balers and compactors, the team has completely changed how they handle both production waste and recyclables. They now even separate plastics by colour to increase value.
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Renting Equipment Keeps Costs on Track
Local waste-equipment specialist CK International worked with Avondale Foods from the start. Together, they reviewed current costs, identified new revenue opportunities, and calculated return on investment.
Avondale Foods set a clear monthly budget for the project. Buying brand-new machines can feel risky, so CK International proposed a five-year rental plan. This package covers breakdowns, warranty, and scheduled maintenance. As a result, Avondale can stick to its budget without worrying about surprise repair costs.
Significant Cost Reductions
Large customers such as M&S, Waitrose, ASDA, Dunnes Stores, and Morrisons expect high standards. Packaging and food waste had become expensive for Avondale Foods. Thanks to a new MPC20 portable compactor, they now achieve heavier loads—11 to 12 tonnes per lorry. Consequently, transport costs have dropped by 20–25 percent.
New Revenue from Recyclables
Previously, Avondale paid for skips to remove mixed waste and cardboard. Now, cardboard is baled using the CK450HFE horizontal baler and sold as a commodity.
Plastic waste is also handled differently. Instead of baling all plastics together, three CK250 balers now separate plastics by colour—clear, blue, and black. This approach adds considerable value to every bale.
Customer Feedback
James McBennett, Senior Purchasing Manager at Avondale Foods, explains:
“Over the past five years we have transformed our waste management to meet legislation and customer expectations. Waste comes in many forms—unpackaged trimmings, packaged food, general waste, and recyclables. Our latest project gives us full control of recyclables from start to finish. Staff now sort materials on the shop floor to maximise rebates and streamline baling. CK International equipment keeps processing costs low while helping us earn income from recyclables.”
CK International’s Perspective
Garrett Loughran, CK International’s Regional Sales Manager for Ireland, adds:
“Our equipment rental option is perfect for companies starting in-house recycling. It offers peace of mind because we handle all maintenance and warranty work. We also supply consumables such as wire and tape. With many years of experience, we can recommend solutions that deliver the best return on investment. I’m delighted with the results at Avondale Foods.”