Novelis to increase number of scrap metal suppliers within the UK

Novelis, the frontrunner in aluminium recycling, is seeking expansion in its global presence. It is considering strategic tie-ups with more number of scrap metal suppliers from the UK.

The recycler had been working on a closed loop creation encompassing its automotive customers such as Jaguar and Land Rover. Novelis had started the task following a £6m investment in its Warrington recycling facility. It was completed last year.

Novelis has already made an investment of half a billion dollars during the past few years in expansion. The projects included the launch of the world’s largest aluminium recycling plant in Nachterstedt, Germany. The £160m investment in Germany allowed the firm to take scrap from within Europe, allowing its recycling plant in UK to focus essentially on domestic customers.

Since then, Novelis has been looking to increase the number of scrap metal suppliers within the UK. Andy Doran, senior manager for sustainability and recycling development, said: “We are growing our sourcing of cans, which is in single figures, and we are trying to grow these into double digits.

“It was never the case that it was growing something in Germany and reducing something else. It’s about growing our overall footprint to make our recycling business even stronger. We are growing in all areas – it’s win, win.”

The latest investment in the Warrington facility includes a dedicated furnace, baling equipment and upgrading furnace equipment required for aluminium recycling.