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A landmark partnership for sustainable food waste management
Keenan Recycling, the UK’s largest provider of sustainable food waste management solutions, has achieved a significant milestone by securing its largest-ever direct national food waste contract with Heart with Smart Group, who are the sole franchisee operator of Pizza Hut Restaurants in the UK. This partnership marks a major step forward in the company’s growth and expansion, as well as its commitment to environmental sustainability.
A nationwide effort
From the Scottish Highlands to the English coast, Keenan Recycling is now responsible for collecting food waste from all Heart with Smart Group’s Pizza Hut Restaurants across the United Kingdom. Their nationwide operation has been diligently collecting food waste from their restaurants, diverting food waste from landfill. This significant achievement demonstrates their commitment to sustainability and their ability to deliver exceptional service on a national scale.
Environmental impact
Since July 2024, Keenan Recycling has successfully collected 189 tonnes of food waste from all Heart with Smart Group’s Pizza Hut Restaurants across the UK. This achievement is a testament to their efficient and reliable food waste collection services.
To minimise their environmental footprint, they employ a combination of diesel and HVO trucks for their collections. This strategic approach has resulted in a reduction of six tonnes of CO2 emissions in just two months, solely from transportation.
By diverting 123 tonnes of food waste from landfill, they have prevented the release of an equivalent amount of CO2 into the atmosphere. This saved CO2 has been harnessed to produce renewable energy through anaerobic digestion (AD). That’s enough clean energy to power 15 British households for an entire year!
Keenan Recycling’s commitment to sustainability is evident in every aspect of their operations, from their choice of vehicles to their innovative recycling processes.
Collaborative approach
The success of this partnership is a testament to the hard work and dedication of Keenan’s team, as well as the support they have received from Heart with Smart Group.
Grant Keenan, MD of Keenan Recycling, commented, “This is a truly exciting moment for Keenan Recycling. Securing this national contract with Heart with Smart Group’s Pizza Hut Restaurants is a validation of our capabilities and a testament to the hard work of our team. We are proud to be partnering with such a well-known and respected brand to make a positive impact on the environment.”
Steve Packer, Chief Financial Officer of Heart with Smart Group, is delighted to partner with Keenan Recycling: “The Heart with Smart group are delighted to agree a direct national contract for all of our Pizza Hut Restaurants across the UK. As well as providing excellent service, the principles that Keenan display regarding the environmental impact of food waste are closely aligned with our own and we are proud to partner with them in this important space.”
Aaron Oreschnick, Restaurant General Manager of Heart with Smart Group’s Pizza Hut in Manchester, expressed his satisfaction with Keenan Recycling’s collection services: “The food waste collection service has been top-notch. They are always on time, efficient, and professional. We’ve had no issues at all and are very happy with their work.”
Commitment to sustainability
Heart with Smart Grouphas been a pioneer in sustainable practices, with a goal of reaching net zero GHG emissions across its value chain by 2040. The company has already made significant strides in reducing its carbon footprint, including reducing operational food waste by 80%.
Key areas where Heart with Smart Group is making a difference:
Food waste reduction: They have reduced operational food waste by 80% since joining the WRAP’s Courtauld 2025 agreement.
Recycling and waste management: The company has implemented effective operational methods for segregating recyclable materials and minimising waste.
Sustainable packaging: They have replaced glass bottles with plastic bottles made from 100% recycled plastic.
Industry leadership: Heart with Smart Group is a founding member of the Zero Carbon Forum, working collaboratively with other industry leaders to reduce carbon emissions.
Keenan Recycling’s proactive approach
By partnering with Keenan Recycling, Heart with Smart Group is taking a proactive approach to food waste management. Keenan Recycling’s expertise in sustainable waste solutions aligns perfectly with Heart with Smart Group’s commitment to environmental responsibility.
Bright future for sustainable food waste management
The partnership between Keenan Recycling and Heart with Smart Group is a shining example of how businesses can work together to create a more sustainable future. As the UK prepares for new food waste regulations in March 2025, Keenan Recycling is well-positioned to provide essential services to businesses across the country.
