This article was written by Genee Consulting Ltd, a consultancy partner we work with, and is shared as part of our commitment to providing helpful industry insight.
Andy Thornton Ltd is a leading supplier of furniture to the hospitality industry, complemented by a thriving metalwork department and an antiques division specialising in reclaimed architectural pieces. Operating from a historic ironworks building, the company has embedded sustainability into its operations, achieving significant waste reduction while championing circular economy principles.
With multiple waste streams and large-scale furniture production, Andy Thornton faced the challenge of reducing overall waste, improving segregation, and ensuring recyclable materials were diverted from general waste. The company also sought to minimise packaging and reuse materials wherever possible.
Structured Waste Management and Circular Practices
Key actions included:
- Segregation and Infrastructure: Introducing clear waste streams for plastic, cardboard, wood, metal, confidential and general waste, supported by staff training and new recycling stations.
- Plastic Reduction: Installing water fountains and encouraging the use of reusable bottles to cut single-use plastics.
- Supplier Engagement: Requesting suppliers to use cardboard rather than plastic packaging.
- Reuse Initiatives: Repurposing pallets internally to reduce wood waste, and reusing foam and plastic for dispatch protection.
- Specialist Recycling: Partnering with local metal recyclers for rebates and working with waste brokers to manage the more complex streams.
- Compliance: Handling confidential waste securely in line with GDPR.
- Circular Economy Leadership: Continuing the company’s heritage of reclaiming and restoring antique architectural pieces for reuse in hospitality projects.
Impact
Comparing 2024 to 2022, Andy Thornton achieved:
- Total Waste Reduction: Nearly 40%.
- Recycled Waste Reduction: 41.36%.
- General Waste Reduction: 31.52%.
Also:
- Wood RORO skip changed only once in a year due to pallet reuse.
- Cardboard rebates reinvested into the local community via Elland Community Events Committee.
- Ongoing restoration of antique fittings prevents tonnes of materials from entering the waste stream, extending product lifespans by decades.
Paul Mercer, Health and Safety Advisor at Andy Thornton, said, "this is what we needed, it helps you build evidence to present to potential future customers! The initial meeting happened in February 2017, and by April 2017, we had our Bronze accreditation. It was straightforward, simple, and so helpful."
Andy Thornton demonstrates how operational improvements and heritage values can combine to deliver sustainability. By embedding reuse and recycling into its operations, the company is reducing waste, supporting local communities, and preserving historic materials for future generations.
More Information
To find out more about iiE, visit our page here.
To discuss how Genee can support your organisation’s sustainability goals, visit Genee Consulting Ltd or contact jo@genee.org.uk.
