Van Dalen boosts operation in the UK

Leading metals recycler Van Dalen has announced it is boosting its capacity in the UK, having invested over six million pounds and creating up to 25 jobs. The capital has gone towards the installation of a state-of-the art ferrous shredder and a new non-ferrous facility at the company’s Sheffield headquarters, as well as expansion at its facilities in the south east and the creation of new roles in purchasing and operations.

Van Dalen, which celebrates its 65th anniversary in 2012, currently operates 17 shredding and baling sites in the UK and Northern Europe. In the UK, the company supplies the major steel mills, as well as a large number of foundries. It also operates deep sea facilities, which enable export to markets throughout the world.

The investment in the business follows a successful 12 months for Van Dalen UK, in which total capacity has increased to 500,000 tonnes per year. The business hopes to double that figure over the next three years, through a mixture of operational investments and strategic partnerships.

Van Dalen UK managing director Tom Bird comments: “Although market conditions have been challenging, we’ve had a really positive 12 months. Going forward, the shredder will transform our Sheffield facility, making it a state-of-the-art metal recycling centre.”

He continues: “The focus on non-ferrous operations will complement our existing success in the ferrous arena, helping us to grow volume and market share. In turn, we hope to provide further investment and job creation opportunities in the UK.”