Bailey of Bristol extends partnership with ETM Recycling as sustainability collaboration delivers strong results

Bailey first partnered with ETM in 2023 as part of a wider sustainability strategy that prioritises waste reduction at source, increased recycling performance, responsible manufacturing and a long-term ambition to become a carbon neutral business.

Delivering measurable environmental benefits

Since 2023, the partnership has delivered significant improvements across waste handling and resource management, supporting Bailey’s transition to more circular and responsible manufacturing practices.

Working with ETM’s state-of-the-art South Bristol Waste Transfer Centre (located less than one mile from Bailey’s production facility) the business has been able to divert all of its commercial waste away from landfill, while minimising carbon emissions from transport due to reduced travel distances.

Key outcomes from the partnership to date include:

• 2325 tonnes of waste diverted from landfill, alongside more than 1000 waste movements in 2025
• Zero waste to landfill, with 70% of waste recycled and 30% recovered
• Improved on-site waste segregation through the introduction of a multi-coloured wheelie bin system, implemented following a full audit of every station on site. Each colour corresponds to a specific waste stream, making it easy for employees to identify which bin to use. This has resulted in fewer general waste compactor exchanges and further reductions in Bailey’s waste disposal costs
• Successful diversion of sawdust from landfill, which was previously landfilled under the former waste contractor

Reducing waste at source

Alongside improved waste processing, Bailey has continued to focus on reducing waste generation within its own supply chain and operations.

Initiatives introduced since 2023 include:

• Increased use of returnable and reusable packaging from key suppliers
• Replacement of single-use packaging on components such as wheels, windows, upholstery and light fixtures
• Introduction of returnable crates, straps and corner guards, eliminating disposable film, polystyrene and plastic wrap
• Switch to silicone sealant sausages in place of traditional tubes, reducing packaging waste and improving line efficiency
• Company-wide elimination of disposable drink cups, supported by reusable bottles and cups issued to employees

Collectively, these measures have contributed to a more resource-efficient production environment and reduced the total volume of waste generated on site.

Ongoing commitment to responsible manufacturing

Commenting on the renewed partnership, Nick Howard, Managing Director of Bailey of Bristol, said:

“We’re delighted to be extending our partnership with ETM, another South Bristol family-owned business, to help us further develop a waste management programme compatible with our Net Zero ambitions.

This collaboration has already delivered real environmental benefits, and is part of the positive action we are taking to help safeguard the planet for the future while continuing to manufacture responsibly.”

Amy McCormack, Director at ETM Recycling, added:

“We are proud to support Bailey on their sustainability journey. As a major local manufacturer, their commitment to waste reduction and recycling demonstrates responsible business in action. We look forward to building on what we’ve achieved together over the next three years.”

Supporting Net Zero objectives

Bailey’s long-term goal is to operate as a carbon neutral business, and the company views efficient waste management, recycling and supplier engagement as critical elements of that journey.

With the renewal of its Total Waste Management Services contract through to 2028, the company will continue to work closely with ETM to improve environmental performance and support sustainable growth in the region.