About Nationwide Metal Recycling

East England's Trusted Metal Recycling Specialists Since 2007
Family-Run Business | BMRA Accredited | 6 Locations

Our Story

Nationwide Metal Recycling was founded in 2007 with a simple mission: to provide honest, professional scrap metal recycling services to businesses and tradespeople across East England. What started as a single facility in Ardleigh, Essex, has grown into a network of six locations serving thousands of customers throughout the region.

We're a family-run business that has spanned three generations, and that makes a difference. When you work with Nationwide Metal Recycling, you're dealing with people who take pride in their reputation and care about long-term relationships, not just transactions. Many of our customers have been with us for over a decade—a testament to the trust we've built through consistent, reliable services.

Over the years, we've invested heavily in our facilities, equipment, and team. Our weighbridges are certified and regularly calibrated to ensure accurate, fair weighing. Our processing facilities are modern and efficient. Most importantly, our staff are experienced professionals who understand metals, markets, and customer service.

Today, we process thousands of tonnes of scrap metal annually, working with everyone from individual tradespeople to major manufacturing facilities. Whether you're an electrician with a van load of cable or a factory undergoing complete clearance, you receive the same professional attention and fair treatment.

We have built up relationships with many European Foundries who complete the recycling circle, shipping directly from our port in Brightlingsea.

We're proud to be BMRA (British Metals Recycling Association) accredited and fully licensed by local authorities. We maintain the highest standards in health & safety, environmental compliance, and business ethics. Our success comes from doing things the right way—every single time.

Nationwide Metal Recycling at a Glance

Founded 2007 - Over 18 years serving East England
Locations 6 facilities across 5 counties
Team 100+ experienced staff members
Accreditation
  • BMRA member & Environment Agency permitted
  • ISO 9001, 14001, 45001 registered
Capacity Multiple certified weighbridges
Annual Throughput Thousands of tonnes recycled
Customer Base Thousands of satisfied trade and commercial customers

Our Values

Honesty & Integrity

We believe in transparent dealings. Our weighbridges are certified, our pricing is fair, and our communication is honest. If we say we'll do something, we do it. No hidden charges, no surprises, no compromises on ethics.

Customer Focus

Our customers are at the heart of everything we do. Whether you're a sole trader or a major manufacturer, you receive professional, respectful service. We listen to your needs and adapt our services accordingly.

Environmental Responsibility

We're passionate about recycling and protecting the environment. Every tonne of metal we recycle reduces the need for mining and lowers carbon emissions. We maximize recycling rates and minimize waste to landfill.

Safety First

Health and safety is non-negotiable. Our facilities meet the highest standards, our staff are properly trained, and we follow strict safety protocols. Creating a safe environment for our team and customers is paramount.

Quality & Professionalism

We maintain high standards in everything we do—from the condition of our facilities to the courtesy of our staff. Professional service isn't just a goal; it's how we operate every single day.

Community Commitment

We're part of the communities we serve. We support local businesses, employ local people, and contribute to the regional economy. Building strong relationships with our communities matters to us.

Our Locations

Head Office

Ardleigh

Martells Quarry
Ardleigh
CO7 7RU

Covering: Colchester, Clacton, Harwich, Tendring District
View Location

Colchester

16 Commerce Way
Colchester
CO2 8HH

Covering: Colchester, Chelmsford, Braintree, Witham
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Cambridge

Barnwell Junction
Cambridge
CB5 8JZ

Covering: Cambridge, Ely, Newmarket, Huntingdon
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Hitchin

Bridge Works
Hitchin
SG4 0SA

Covering: Hitchin, Stevenage, Letchworth, Baldock
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Holbeach

5A Fen Road
Holbeach
PE12 8QA

Covering: Spalding, Boston, Holbeach, South Lincs
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Eye

The Yard
Near Eye
IP21 5EX

Covering: Eye, Diss, Stowmarket, Mid Suffolk
View Location

Accreditations & Compliance

Operating to the highest industry standards with full regulatory compliance

BMRA Member

British Metals Recycling Association

Environment Agency

Fully Permitted Facilities

Waste Carrier

Registered & Licensed

ISO Certified

9001, 14001, 45001

Industry Recognition

BMRA Membership

We're proud members of the British Metals Recycling Association (BMRA), the trade association representing the UK's metal recycling sector. BMRA membership demonstrates our commitment to:

  • Best practice in metal recycling
  • High industry standards
  • Environmental responsibility
  • Professional business conduct
  • Continuous improvement

Licensing & Permits

All our facilities operate under:

  • Scrap Metal Dealer Licenses (required by law)
  • Environment Agency permits
  • Waste carrier licenses
  • Local authority approvals
  • ISO 9001, 14001, 45001 registered

We maintain full compliance with all relevant legislation including:

  • Scrap Metal Dealers Act 2013
  • Environmental Protection Act 1990
  • Waste (England and Wales) Regulations 2011
  • Health & Safety at Work Act 1974

Insurance & Certification

  • Public Liability Insurance (£10 million)
  • Employer's Liability Insurance
  • Goods in Transit Insurance
  • Certified weighbridges (regularly calibrated)
  • ISO compliance processes

Commitment to Standards

Our accreditations aren't just certificates on the wall—they represent our daily commitment to operating at the highest standards of safety, environmental protection, and business ethics.

We undergo regular audits and inspections to maintain our licenses and certifications. This ensures our customers can trust that we're handling their scrap metal legally, safely, and responsibly.

Why Customers Choose Nationwide Metal Recycling

18+ Years of Experience

Nearly two decades serving East England. We've seen market changes, economic cycles, and industry evolution. This experience means better service for you.

Competitive Prices Every Day

We track market prices daily and offer competitive rates for all metals. Fair weighing on certified equipment means you get what you deserve.

Same day payment

We understand cash flow matters. Bank transfer payment on the same day, sometimes immediately during business hours. No waiting, no cheques, no excuses.

6 Convenient Locations

Strategic facilities across Essex, Suffolk, Cambridgeshire, Hertfordshire, and Lincolnshire. There's always a site convenient to you.

Personal Service

Speak to real people who can make decisions and solve problems. No call centers, no automated systems. Just experienced staff who care.

Flexible Collection Services

From one-off collections to regular schedules, container hire to site clearances. We adapt our services to your specific needs.

Our Environmental Commitment

Metal recycling is one of the most environmentally beneficial industries. Every tonne of metal we recycle contributes to a more sustainable future by reducing mining impact, saving energy, lowering carbon emissions, and conserving water resources.

95% Energy saved recycling aluminium vs. virgin production
85% Energy saved recycling copper vs. virgin production
75% Energy saved recycling steel vs. virgin production

All materials we process are recycled through certified facilities, ensuring they genuinely re-enter the supply chain. We work only with accredited downstream processors and maintain full environmental compliance at every stage.

Ready to Work With Us?

Whether you need a one-off collection, regular service, or want to discuss a major project, we're here to help. Contact us today to experience the NM Recycling difference.