A Groundbreaking Collaboration for Sustainable Food Waste Solutions
Keenan Recycling, the UK’s largest provider of sustainable food waste management services, has achieved a major breakthrough by securing its biggest-ever national food waste contract with Heart with Smart Group, the exclusive franchisee operator of Pizza Hut Restaurants in the UK. This collaboration signifies a significant milestone for Keenan Recycling, contributing to both its business growth and its commitment to environmental sustainability.
A Nationwide Initiative
Keenan Recycling now oversees the collection of food waste from every Pizza Hut restaurant operated by Heart with Smart Group across the UK, from the Scottish Highlands to the English coast. This expansive operation ensures food waste is diverted from landfill, demonstrating the company’s dedication to sustainability and its capacity to deliver top-notch service on a national scale.
Environmental Impact
Since July 2024, Keenan Recycling has collected 189 tonnes of food waste from all Heart with Smart Group’s Pizza Hut outlets across the country. This achievement reflects their efficient and dependable food waste management services.
In a bid to minimise their environmental footprint, Keenan uses a combination of diesel and HVO trucks for collections, which has reduced CO2 emissions by six tonnes within just two months, solely from transportation.
By diverting 123 tonnes of food waste away from landfill, Keenan Recycling has prevented the release of a significant amount of CO2 into the atmosphere. The CO2 saved has been converted into renewable energy through anaerobic digestion (AD), generating enough clean energy to power 15 British households for an entire year.
Keenan Recycling’s dedication to sustainability is evident in all aspects of its operation, from vehicle choice to innovative recycling practices.
A Collaborative Effort
The success of this partnership is a reflection of the dedication and hard work of Keenan Recycling’s team, as well as the support from Heart with Smart Group.
Grant Keenan, Managing Director of Keenan Recycling, said, “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, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership: “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 Pizza Hut in Manchester, spoke highly of Keenan Recycling’s 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 Group has been at the forefront of implementing sustainable practices, aiming to achieve net zero GHG emissions across its value chain by 2040. The company has already made substantial progress in reducing its carbon footprint, notably reducing food waste by 80%.
Key initiatives from Heart with Smart Group include:
- Food waste reduction: Operational food waste has been reduced by 80% since joining WRAP’s Courtauld 2025 agreement.
- Recycling and waste management: The company has implemented efficient methods for segregating recyclable materials and reducing waste.
- Sustainable packaging: Glass bottles have been replaced with plastic ones made from 100% recycled materials.
- Industry leadership: Heart with Smart Group is a founding member of the Zero Carbon Forum, collaborating with industry peers to reduce carbon emissions.
Proactive Food Waste Management
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 seamlessly with Heart with Smart Group’s commitment to environmental responsibility.
A Promising Future for Sustainable Waste Management
The collaboration between Keenan Recycling and Heart with Smart Group is an inspiring example of how businesses can join forces to create a more sustainable future. As the UK prepares for new food waste regulations in March 2025, Keenan Recycling is well-equipped to provide essential services to businesses nationwide.
