Retail waste is any waste generated by businesses involved in retail.
This can include any waste stream, but normally refers to the 4 main types of waste, which are general waste, dry mixed recycling, food waste, and glass waste.
Retail waste is produced as an inevitable result of daily activities.
It is essential that retailers minimise their waste as much as possible to reduce their impact on the environment, and reduce their operational cost.
1. What is Retail Waste?
Retail waste refers to the various types of waste generated by businesses and establishments involved in retail operations.
Retail waste refers to any type of waste that is generated by retail businesses, like high street clothing shops, electronic stores, grocery stores and supermarkets, bookstores and furniture shops and much more.
Retail waste can encompass a wide range of materials and items produced as a result of the specific shop’s daily activities.
Some common examples of retail waste include:
1. General Waste
The types of commercial general waste that retail shops may produce include:
- Non-recyclable waste from packaging
- Non-recyclable plastic shopping bags
- Non-recyclable paper (e.g. receipts, posters, brochures).
- Broken and damaged merchandise
- Expired or unsold inventory that is non-recyclable.
- Clothing and textile waste
- Damaged store fixtures and fittings
2. Recyclable Waste
Recyclable waste for retailers could include the following:
- Cardboard & paper from packaging and promotional materials
- Plastic packaging from bottles, containers etc.
- Glass containers from beverages and storage containers
- Tin cans from food and drink storage
- Recyclable bags made from paper or plastic
3. Food Waste
Retailers can produce huge amounts of food waste, particularly those that specialise in selling food-related produce such as greengrocers and supermarkets etc.
Food waste typically is caused by the following reasons:
- By-products (food waste generated by preparing food such as fruit and vegetable peels, coffee grounds)
- Expired/ spoiled food
- Leftovers (any food left on the plate after a meal is finished)
- Overproduction/ unsold produce
- Ruined food (e.g. burnt, dropped on the floor)
Some examples that are common for retailers include:
- Unsold fresh produce like fruits, vegetables and herbs
- Expired food packages like microwave meals, meal deal components etc.
- Unsold bakery and deli items that have short sell-by dates
- Expired meat and seafood
- Spoiled dairy products like yoghurt, cheese, or milk
- Overproduction of salad bar food such as dressings, pre-made salad options like chopped lettuce, coleslaw, potato salad etc.
Food waste can also come from stores that don’t sell food from any back offices or staff rooms where employees consume food on the premises.
4. Glass Waste
Retailers contribute to a significant portion of glass waste through various means:
- Glass bottles and jars from food product and beverages, or storage containers for various products
- Merchandise display units
- Lighting fixtures (with electrical components removed)
- Broken fragile items such as glassware, ornaments and homeware
- Returned or damaged glass products
- Damaged furniture and decor like glass tables, TV units or vases
- Broken cosmetic items such as perfume bottles, colognes, skincare items
2. Why is Proper Retail Waste Disposal Important?
Efficiently managing waste disposal in your shop with separate bins can lead to significant cost savings.
The costs associated with waste collection for retailers are impacted by various factors, including the type of waste, the frequency of pickups, the size of bins, and any government-mandated excess weight fees.
By segregating waste into distinct streams, such as food waste or dry mixed recycling, you can reduce the weight in your general waste bins or mixed recycling bins and avoid those costly excess weight fees.
While investing in additional waste bins may initially seem like an expense, it often proves to be a cost-effective, long-term strategy.
Properly managing your shop’s waste streams can result in substantial cost savings, benefiting both your bottom line, and the environment.
Breakdown of Cost Savings for Retailers and Shop Owners
The weekly cost of collection for the largest general waste bin (1100L) and the largest dry mixed recycling bin (1100L) stands at £136, plus twice the applicable VAT.
It’s important to note that this estimate doesn’t encompass additional fees associated with excess weight, which could raise the cost significantly, a common occurrence for retailers, regardless of the products they sell.
Not only do factors such as breakages, expiration and overproduction contribute to a lot of waste, but your shop’s staff will also contribute to waste generation, purchasing items with packaging, consuming food on breaks and lunchtimes etc.
However, retail businesses can optimise their waste management and reduce their ongoing cost.
By downsizing the general waste bin and the dry mixed recycling bin while introducing separate waste streams and opting for a less frequent, fortnightly collection schedule, retail stores can slash this cost to just £105 plus VAT!
By downsizing your general waste bin and recycling bin and diversifying your waste management portfolio, you can actually reduce your waste collection fee to just £105 plus VAT per month.
This is a monthly saving of £31, which accumulates to an annual saving of roughly £375!
These savings could be increased if your business typically incurs a large amount of excess waste fees due to having heavy waste like food waste in your general waste bin.
Making the decision to work with Waste Basics to develop an efficient waste management system that is tailored to your retail business can lead to substantial long-term savings.
Not only does it positively impact your shop’s finances, but it also helps the environment along the way.
Win-win!
2. Environmental Responsibility
For retail, taking responsibility for your waste management is not only great for improving your margins, but is also an essential component of environmental responsibility.
Implementing separate bins for each waste stream, such as a dedicated food waste bin means that you can encourage recycling and the proper disposal of each type of waste.
Here’s why it’s crucial that you separate your waste properly:
1. Diverting Waste from Landfills:
In the retail sector, sorting waste into different categories is crucial to reducing the amount of waste destined for landfills, where harmful methane gas becomes a significant concern.
It’s particularly relevant because a substantial portion of global food waste ends up in landfills, really worsening the problem.
By categorising waste as food waste, dry mixed recycling, glass recycling or any other waste stream, rather than lumping everything into general waste, retail establishments enhance the likelihood of responsible recycling and eco-friendly disposal.
2. Reducing Methane Emissions:
In the retail industry, food waste plays a substantial role in the overall waste generated.
Retailers throw away the equivalent of a whopping 190 million meals every single year.
When food waste ends up in general waste bins, it heads to landfills, decomposes without oxygen, and releases methane – a harmful greenhouse gas.
The solution to combating this straightforward: introduce separate bins for food waste.
This not only reduces the environmental impact but can also lead to cost savings for retail businesses.
A win-win!
3. Promoting Recycling:
In the retail sector, having a separate bin for dry mixed recycling, such as cardboard, glass, and plastics, promotes good recycling practices.
It helps employees easily understand where they can recycle and ensures the highest chance of successful recycling.
Retail employees prioritise convenience and efficiency, so clearly labeled, easily accessible recycling bins are more likely to be used.
Recycling conserves valuable resources, energy, and contributes to a greener environment.
3. Compliance with Legislation
Understanding and complying with waste management regulations is incredibly important to ensure your business stays legal and avoids fines and penalties.
The ‘Environmental Act 2021‘ which became law in 2021, establishes legally-binding environmental improvement targets for businesses.
Although this legislation applies to all businesses across the UK, including retail stores, enforcement begins in April 2024 for Wales, followed shortly by England.
Under the ‘Environmental Act 2021,’ retail stores will be obligated to separate and dispose of waste responsibly.
This means having dedicated bins for specific waste types, such as food and recycling.
Non-compliance with these regulations can result in significant penalties for your retail business.
While managing waste in retail might initially seem complex, our team at Waste Basics is here to simplify the process for you.
We offer personalised guidance and support, helping you create an efficient waste management plan tailored to your retail establishment’s unique needs.
For instant access to the price, make sure to check out our online instant quote tool!
Don’t delay, get your waste sorted with us today.
3. UK Shop and Retail Waste Statistics
Did you know that retailers throw away the equivalent of 190 million meals every single year?
In a cost of living crisis, with costs skyrocketing every day for both the consumer and shop owners, it is imperative that business owners critically evaluate how much waste they are throwing away.
By segregating waste into different waste streams and ensuring that the best waste conservation and recycling initiatives are in place, businesses can aim to reduce their waste and decrease how much money and resources end up in the bin.
Supermarkets like Waitrose, Marks & Spencer’s, Sainsbury’s, Tesco, Aldi & Lidl have been reported to sell around 294 million plastic bags every single year.
Following the introduction of a plastic bag charge in May 2021, most retailers began selling “bags for life” at the government-mandated cost of 10 pence.
Although these bags have been branded as bags for life and the iniative was put in place to encourage consumers to re-use their shopping bags, Greenpeace reports that more plastic bags are being sold every year with a 4.5% increase from 2018-2019 alone.
These sturdier bags, made out of thicker plastic, need to be used at least 10 times before they have the same carbon impact as a thin, single use plastic bag; so only improve the carbon footprint of a single use plastic bag if they are used on more than 10 occasions.
Did you know that the retail sector wastes 277,000 tonnes of food every single year?
And this amount of food waste is currently on the rise, increasing at least 3.9% year on year.
It’s important that businesses review their food waste management plan and ensure they’ve got the proper resources in place to reduce the amount of food waste they contribute to.
In the UK, retailers and shop owners produce 2 million tonnes of packaging waste every year.
This packaging waste can come from the use of disposable containers, cling film (also known as plastic wrap), and packaging materials like cardboard boxes used for various products and goods.
Packaging waste is normally not reusable, so reducing its impact is essential.
Retail waste from packaging can cause environmental harm, waste resources, and increase economic and ecological costs.
4. What Size Bins are Best for Your Retail Waste?
For retailers, choosing the right waste bin size is a critical decision that will be influenced by different factors.
This will include your waste store capacity, the types of waste your shop generates, and the total waste volume produced.
In shops and retail environments, the most common forms of waste generated is general waste, dry mixed recycling, food waste and glass waste.
Waste Basics provides a selection of bin sizes customized to accommodate the specific waste output of retail stores, ensuring an optimal fit for efficient waste management.
Some retailers may opt for a combination of bin sizes to match their specific waste requirements and available storage space effectively.
Our approach is flexible, ensuring the most effective and efficient retail waste management.
If you’re unsure about the best bin sizes for your store’s waste production, feel free to reach out to our friendly and knowledgeable team.
We’re here to offer expert guidance and assist you in making the right choice.
General Waste
Every retailer is unique, and the volume of general waste your shop will generate can vary significantly, along with available bin space.
Waste Basics provides three clear options to meet your retail store’s general waste needs.
Unlike some waste collectors that may complicate matters to maximise profits and take advantage of your business, we are committed to offering transparent and straightforward pricing.
You can easily obtain a free quote online or contact us for personalised assistance.
1100L Commercial General Waste Bin:
Our 1100L general waste bin is a popular choice for many retailers due to its generous pre-collection capacity of up to 70kg, accommodating approximately 18 bin bags.
This bin stands at 1.40 meters in height and 1.26 meters in width.
660L Commercial Waste Bin:
The 660L general waste bin is another common option for retail settings throughout the UK, offering a pre-collection capacity of up to 40kg and space for around 12 bin bags.
This bin measures 1.3 meters in height and 1.26 meters in width.
240L Commercial Waste Bin:
For smaller retail waste management needs, the 240L bin is a practical solution, capable of holding up to 15kg before collection and accommodating approximately 4 bin bags.
This bin is similar in size to a standard household wheelie bin, measuring just 1.08 meters in height and 0.58 meters in width.
Some retail stores use this bin alongside larger ones for extra waste accommodation.
Dry Mixed Recycling
In retail spaces, the volume of dry mixed recycling generated and available bin space can vary.
Waste Basics offers three distinct options to meet your retail store’s dry mixed recycling requirements.
We prioritise clear and transparent pricing, unlike other national waste collectors who may try and confuse costs and sneak in hidden prices.
You can easily obtain a free quote online or contact us for personalised support, ensuring the best management of your retail store’s waste needs.
1100L Dry Mixed Recycling Bin
Our 1100L Dry Mixed Recycling bin is a popular choice among our 28,000+ retail customers in the UK.
As the largest commercial dry mixed recycling bin, it can accommodate up to 40kg of mixed recycling, which is roughly equivalent to 115 medium-sized cardboard boxes or around 3,300 plastic bottles.
660L Dry Mixed Recycling Bin
The 660L dry mixed recycling bin is another excellent choice for retail stores that generate a moderate amount of recyclable waste.
With a capacity of up to 25kg, it can handle approximately 59 flattened cardboard boxes or about 2,500 plastic bottles.
240L Dry Mixed Recycling Bin
For retail spaces with limited storage or smaller waste storage areas, our 240L dry mixed recycling bin is an ideal solution.
It can hold up to 10kg of recyclable materials, roughly equivalent to 24 empty cardboard boxes or around 700 plastic bottles.
This bin size is similar to a typical household wheelie bin.
If you’re uncertain about which bin size suits your retail store, don’t hesitate to contact our friendly team.
They’re available to provide assistance without any obligations and help you make the right selection.
Food Waste
At Waste Basics, we are proud to be an award-winning Waste Broker, dedicated to helping retail owners effectively manage their waste across the UK for over 12 years.
Our food waste bins have become a highly valued choice among our 28,000+ retail customers, especially in retail spaces where food waste management can be a considerable challenge.
These bins have consistently proven to be a cost-effective solution for our clients over the long term, primarily because food waste tends to be much heavier than typical retail waste.
Our food waste bins have been shown to save our retail clients a significant amount of money in the long run due to the substantial weight of food waste compared to regular retail waste.
Our 240L food waste bin, despite its compact size, offers remarkable efficiency when it comes to food waste storage.
This bin can comfortably accommodate up to 4 full bags of food waste or the weight equivalent of 100kg, which is roughly the weight of a standard refrigerator or a small piano!
With dimensions matching those of a household wheelie bin (1.08m in height and 0.58m in width), it’s a practical choice ideally suited for retail establishments.
If you have concerns about whether it can meet your retail store’s food waste needs, some of our retail clients opt for multiple food waste bins to ensure they always have ample space for their property’s food waste.
Don’t hesitate to call us today or request a callback for no-obligation, complimentary advice tailored to your retail waste management needs.
Glass Waste
Our glass recycling bin is thoughtfully crafted to cater to the distinct glass waste needs of retail establishments in the UK.
We recognise that retail stores frequently encounter difficulties when handling their glass recycling, primarily because of constraints in on-site storage and fluctuating demands.
By actively seeking input from our 28,000+ customers, we’ve devised an effective storage solution customised for your retail store’s commercial glass waste.
This solution has been rigorously tested and stands as the optimal choice, guaranteeing a smooth glass recycling process for your retail space.
In the context of retail, glass recycling may initially seem like a significant investment; however, our glass recycling bins consistently prove to be a cost-effective and practical solution for our retail partners in the long term.
This becomes especially evident when compared to the alternative options of increasing waste pick-up frequencies or adding more general waste or dry mixed recycling bins.
Glass waste bins provide substantial benefits, especially for retail spaces that generate a considerable volume of glass waste.
This is often the case when retail stores offer beverages like bottled water, soda, or glassware for meetings or corporate events.
Our 240L glass recycling bin is an excellent choice for efficiently managing your retail store’s glass recycling waste.
It can easily accommodate up to 100kg of glass, which is equivalent to the weight of a standard washing machine!
With dimensions similar to those of a household wheelie bin (1.08m in height and 0.58m in width), it offers a practical and space-saving solution for retail establishments.
For retailers the demands for glass waste collection can vary.
To meet the needs of our retail partners, some opt for multiple bins, especially in areas like office kitchens or break spaces where commercial glass waste accumulates.
Even if your retail store has limited storage space, our bin dimensions are well-suited for compact and secure waste storage areas.
Unlike other waste collection providers that may have hidden fees or variable costs, we prioritise transparent pricing.
With us, you’ll always have a clear understanding of the costs associated with your glass recycling services.
Alternatively, you can utilise our free quote tool to obtain instant cost estimates tailored to your specific retail requirements.
Don’t hesitate to get in touch for a no-obligation, complimentary call to discover how we can support efficient glass recycling for your retail space.
5. How Much Do Bins Cost for Retail Waste?
In retail, the price each shop will pay for waste management will differ dependent on varying factors.
These include the type of waste generated, the volume of waste produced, and the required frequency of waste collection for your retail establishment.
At Waste Basics, we place a strong emphasis on price transparency in our services.
When you opt to work with us, you can trust that you’ll receive a comprehensive breakdown of your expenses, with no confusing fees or hidden charges.
We prioritise simplicity to offer peace of mind for your retail store, ensuring that you have a clear understanding of the costs involved in your waste collection services.
General Waste
In the retail sector, the cost of general waste collection can vary based on the size of the bin and the collection frequency.
Here are the pricing options for our bins:
- Our 1100L bin costs £80 per month for a weekly collection or £40 per month for a fortnightly collection.
- The 660L bin is priced at £60 per month for a weekly collection or £30 per month for a fortnightly collection.
- The smallest bin, 240L, is available for £45 per month for a weekly collection or £23 per month for a fortnightly collection.
At Waste Basics, we take pride in our commitment to transparency and affordability.
Unlike national waste collectors like Biffa, Veolia, and Viridor, who may introduce complexities and inflate costs in retail waste management, we offer clear and upfront pricing.
We understand that navigating hidden fees and unforeseen expenses can make it challenging to determine both the most cost-effective option for your retail store’s waste collection and the ideal waste broker for your business.
Since our establishment 12 years ago, we have focused on building strong customer relationships and maintaining transparency.
Our approach has resonated with our 28,000+ satisfied customers across various sectors, including retail, which is why they choose to stay with us for years!
1100L Commercial General Waste Bins for Retail
Our 1100L general waste bin stands as the largest choice among our commercial general waste bins designed for retail spaces at Waste Basics.
This substantial bin can comfortably accommodate approximately 18 black bin bags or a maximum weight of 70kg (equivalent to roughly 70 bags of rice!).
We offer a competitive rate of just £80+VAT for a weekly waste collection service.
For retail stores that require less frequent waste pickups, we provide the option of fortnightly waste collections at a cost of £40+VAT.
If you’re uncertain about the ideal bin size or collection frequency that suits your retail establishment, please don’t hesitate to contact us today.
You can also obtain a free, instant quote using our brand-new online quote tool!
660L Commercial General Waste Bins for Retail
The 660L General Waste Bin is a fantastic choice among our lineup of commercial general waste bins, tailor-made to meet the needs of retail spaces.
This bin offers ample space, accommodating approximately 12 black bin bags or a maximum weight of 40kg (which is roughly equivalent to the weight of an average adult bicycle).
Opting for a weekly waste collection service is available at a competitive rate of £60+VAT, while the bi-weekly option comes in at £30+VAT.
If you require assistance in selecting the ideal bin size or collection frequency for your retail store’s general waste, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us.
We’ve also introduced a brand-new, online, and completely free, no-obligation quote tool for your retail store’s waste collection service that provides instant access to our prices.
240L Commercial Waste Bin for Retail
The 240L General Waste Bin offers a practical and space-saving solution among our range of commercial general waste bins at Waste Basics, making it an excellent fit for retail spaces with limited storage space or those producing less non-recyclable waste.
This bin is designed to handle a maximum weight of up to 15kg before collection, roughly equivalent to the weight of 15 large watermelons.
It comfortably accommodates around 4 bin bags and shares the same dimensions as a standard household wheelie bin.
Opting for a weekly waste collection service is available at a rate of £45+VAT, while the bi-weekly option is priced at £23+VAT.
If you need help deciding on the right bin size or collection schedule for your retail store’s waste, we’re here to discuss your options with a completely complimentary, hassle-free quote.
Dry Mixed Recycling for Retail
For retail establishments in need of weekly waste collection services, the pricing for our commercial recycling bins at Waste Basics is as follows: £56+VAT for a 1100L bin, £48+VAT for a 660L bin, and £40+VAT for a 240L bin.
Alternatively, if you prefer fortnightly pickups, our prices are as follows: £28+VAT for a 1100L recycling bin, £25+VAT for a 660L bin, and £22+VAT for a 240L bin.
We’ve noticed that some national waste collectors use convoluted pricing strategies to maximise their profits, often at the expense of small businesses.
At Waste Basics, we do business differently.
From the very inception of our company, we’ve been committed to complete transparency in our pricing, ensuring that our retail customers always have a clear understanding of their expenses.
There are no hidden costs here.
Over the past 12 years, our approach to transparent pricing has been greatly appreciated by our 28,000 customers, which is why they consistently choose to renew their partnerships with us.
1100L Dry Mixed Recycling Bin for Retail
The 1100L Recycling Bin is the largest option available in our range of commercial recycling bins at Waste Basics, making it a perfect choice for retail spaces.
Its generous capacity makes it a favorite among retail establishments.
It can comfortably handle a maximum weight of 40kg, which is roughly equivalent to the weight of a photocopier or an espresso machine!
Opting for a weekly waste collection service for your retail store’s recycling is priced at just £56+VAT.
For retail stores with slightly lower demand for dry mixed recycling disposal, the option of a fortnightly waste collection is available at a cost of £28+VAT.
If you’re uncertain about the best bin size or collection frequency for your recyclable waste in your retail establishment, please don’t hesitate to contact us today.
Alternatively, you can use our online quote tool to receive a commitment-free and entirely complimentary quote.
660L Dry Mixed Recycling Bin for Retail
The 660L dry mixed recycling bin is an excellent choice within our range of commercial recycling bins, tailor-made to meet the needs of retail spaces.
This bin offers substantial capacity, capable of holding a maximum weight of 25kg, which is roughly equivalent to the weight of an average microwave or office chair.
For retail stores considering a weekly waste collection service for their recyclables, the cost is £48+VAT.
Alternatively, for retail stores that prefer a bi-weekly collection schedule, the option is available at £25+VAT.
If you need assistance in choosing the best bin size for your retail space or the ideal collection frequency for your recyclable waste, please feel free to reach out to our friendly team.
You can also use our online quote tool for access to our prices.
240L Dry Mixed Recycling Bin for Retail:
The 240L Recycling Bin is the smallest recycling bin available, making it a practical choice for retail spaces with limited waste storage capacity.
This bin efficiently manages a capacity of up to 10kg before collection, roughly equivalent to the weight of a desktop computer or a paper shredder.
It offers a decent volume for recycling and shares the same dimensions as a standard household wheelie bin.
For retail stores considering a weekly commercial recycling waste collection service, the cost is £40+VAT.
Alternatively, if your retail space prefers a bi-weekly collection schedule, the option stands at £22+VAT.
If you need help deciding on the right bin size or collection schedule for your waste in your retail store, we’re here to assist.
You can reach out to us directly or request a callback at a more convenient time.
When you’re ready to explore your options, use our completely complimentary, hassle-free quote tool to get straight to the cost.
Food Waste Collection for Retail
When it comes to food waste in retail, the pricing is set at £40 +VAT per month for a weekly retail waste collection, and just £20 +VAT per month for a fortnightly collection.
Unlike other waste collection providers such as Biffa, Viridor, or Veolia, you can rest assured that there will be no hidden fees or surprise expenses when you choose Waste Basics for your retail waste disposal.
Our commitment to transparent pricing has been unwavering since day one and will remain so—an aspect highly appreciated by our 28,000+ customers!
With us, you’ll have complete clarity, always knowing precisely what your food waste costs entail, every single time.
If you prefer to get a quick cost estimate, you can use our free quote tool for instant access to pricing based on your specific retail requirements. Alternatively, feel free to contact us for a no-obligation, free call to learn more.
Glass Waste Collection for Retail
When it comes to glass collection, the pricing for a 240L glass waste bin is as follows: £22+VAT per month for fortnightly collections, and £44+VAT per month for weekly collections.
At Waste Basics, we take pride in our commitment to transparency and affordability.
Unlike national waste collectors like Biffa, Veolia, and Viridor, who may employ convoluted pricing strategies and inflate costs for your retail store’s glass recycling, we offer clear and upfront pricing.
Navigating through hidden fees and unforeseen expenses can make it challenging to determine not only the most cost-effective option for your retail store’s waste collection but also the ideal waste broker for your business.
Since our inception 12 years ago, we have prioritized building strong customer relationships and maintaining transparency.
Our approach has resonated with our 28,000+ satisfied customers in various sectors, including retail, which is why they choose to stay with us for years!
In the retail sector, our extensive experience working with retail stores has shown that most of our clients prefer a weekly glass waste pickup service.
For our retail partners, this service is priced at just £44+ VAT per week.
However, if your retail store generates less glass waste, our fortnightly pickup option offers great value at £22+ VAT per month.
It’s that simple!
To accurately calculate the cost of the waste streams tailored to your retail establishment’s needs and desired pickup frequency, be sure to take advantage of our online free quote tool!
Are there extra charges for excess weight?
Excess weight is charged at just 20p per kilogram over the maximum weight limit of the specific waste bin(s) your retail store chooses to use.
Dealing with excess weight charges is a common concern for many retail stores, especially when dealing with heavier waste streams like food waste.
If your retail store tends to generate excess or heavier waste, here are several options to consider:
- Multiple Bins: Opt for multiple bins to distribute the weight more effectively.
- Increased Pick-Up Frequency: Choose more frequent pick-ups to manage the weight more efficiently.
- Dedicated Waste Streams: Consider adding specific waste streams, such as a food waste bin, to prevent heavy waste from occupying valuable capacity in your general waste bin.
If you’re searching for even more cost-effective solutions, explore our sister company, Waste Managed!
At Waste Managed, you won’t incur extra charges for overweight general waste bins, and you’ll have a dedicated account manager ready to provide additional support for your retail store.
The Waste Managed team calculates the cost of all your ongoing waste collection needs, including general waste and any other waste streams your retail store requires, over the course of a year.
This cost is then divided into 12 equal monthly payments, providing you with a fixed monthly bill. This ensures that you always know exactly what you’ll be paying, helping you manage your retail store’s waste costs efficiently.
6. What Legislation Affects My Retail Waste Collection?
In the retail sector, staying informed about waste collection legislation is vital for businesses to ensure compliance and responsible waste management practices.
Current Legislation for Retail Waste Collection
Existing UK legislation mandates that businesses, including retail stores, must take proactive steps to minimise waste by preventing, reusing, recycling, or recovering it.
This includes all waste streams, such as food waste, recyclable waste, and general waste.
Retail stores must have appropriate bins for specific waste streams, including general waste, dry mixed recycling, food waste, and glass waste, to ensure proper disposal and responsible waste handling.
Using dedicated bins for different waste streams allows retail stores to actively contribute to waste reduction and effective recycling practices while benefiting their bottom line.
Get an instant quote for your retail store’s waste management needs through our online quote tool!
If you prefer to speak with a member of our team, feel free to call us or request a callback at your convenience.
Upcoming Changes to Legislation Affecting Retail Waste Collection:
Retail stores should also be aware of impending legislative changes that could impact waste collection practices.
The ‘Environmental Act 2021,’ set to be enforced in Wales from April 2024 and soon after across England, introduces new requirements for waste separation.
Under this act, all businesses, including retail stores, will be obligated to segregate their waste into specific streams, including dry mixed recycling (for paper, plastic, cardboard, and metal), glass waste, and food waste.
To comply with the Environmental Act 2021, retail stores that do not already have these bins in place will need to acquire dedicated dry mixed recycling bins, glass waste, and food waste bins.
Larger retail spaces and businesses will also have to maintain detailed records of their waste disposal for government records.
If you find these changes confusing or need further guidance on how they will impact your retail store, rest assured that we are here to assist you.
Our friendly advisors are available for a no-commitment conversation, and you can call us or request a callback at your convenience.
Additionally, our online quote tool provides instant access to our pricing information.
7. The Retail Waste Collection Process
How does retail waste collection work, and what are the next steps?
Check out the simple process below!
1) Choose Your Bins
At Waste Basics, we simplify the management of your retail store’s waste collection, ensuring it’s the most seamless and efficient process it can be.
Our commitment to transparency is reflected in our easily accessible pricing, available on our website or through our user-friendly quote tool!
This tool breaks down the costs associated with your retail store’s waste disposal, covering various waste types such as general waste, dry mixed recycling, food waste, and glass recycling.
You have the flexibility to select the bin sizes you need and specify the quantity required.
We recognise your retail store’s need for high-quality service at the most competitive rates, and we’re here to assist you in achieving just that.
If you prefer personalised assistance from a real human being, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us by phone or request a callback at your convenience!
2) Arrange Free Delivery of Your Bins
When you choose our retail waste collection services, you can say goodbye to any unexpected fees for bin rental or delivery, setting us apart from other national waste collectors who can charge exorbitant rates for this service.
We’re committed to promptly delivering the bins you need for your retail store’s waste without any unnecessary costs.
We understand the significance of convenience and will collaborate with you to establish a customised delivery schedule that aligns with your retail store’s unique requirements.
We’ll handle any logistical challenges, whether it involves ensuring access to locked gates or secured areas, enabling you to concentrate on the smooth operation of your retail store.
Rest assured, when you opt for Waste Basics, our primary focus is on simplifying the entire process for you, ensuring a seamless and efficient waste collection experience for your retail store.
3) Fill Up Your Bins
Once the complimentary bins have been delivered to your retail store’s location, you can proceed to fill them with your retail waste, ensuring that each waste stream is properly separated into the correct bin.
4) Get Your Retail Store’s Waste Collected
We’ll establish a customized schedule that fits your retail store, ensuring it aligns with the volume of waste your establishment generates.
8. FAQs
What is retail waste collection?
Retail waste collection is the process of having any retail waste collected from the premises and disposed of at a disposal facility.
This could include general waste, dry mixed recycling, food waste, and glass recycling.
Why is retail waste collection important?
Retail waste collection is important to ensure that waste is disposed of responsibly, reduces negative environmental impact, and helps retail stores comply with waste management regulations.
At Waste Basics we keep our prices low, and transparent.
Use our free online quote tool to find out how much your waste collection will cost you.
What types of waste are typically generated by retail stores?
Retail stores generate various types of waste, including general waste, dry mixed recycling, food waste, and glass recycling.
How can I choose the right bin size for my retail store?
You can choose the right bin size for your retail store by considering factors such as the volume of waste generated, available storage space, and waste collection frequency to determine the appropriate bin size for your retail store.
If you’d like some personalised assistance in choosing the best size for your business, make sure you give us a call today or organise a callback at the best time for you.
Is it better to opt for weekly or fortnightly waste collections?
The choice between weekly or fortnightly collections depends on your retail store’s budget, waste generation, and storage capacity.
Frequent collections may be necessary for larger stores that generate more waste, or if you commonly experience excess weight fees for overweight bins.
What are the costs associated with retail waste collection?
Retail waste collection costs depend on the waste broker you choose as well as factors like waste type, pickup frequency, and bin size.
You can find out exactly what retail waste collection will cost you through our online quote tool!
Are there any additional fees for excess weight in bins?
There are additional fees for excess weight in bins.
This mandated by the government, but can be more expensive dependent on the contract you sign.
With us at Waste Basics, we prioritise complete transparency, which is why we always charge exactly 20p per kilogram of excess waste per bin and make sure we keep you in the loop of any excess weight fees heading your way.
Get a quote with our online quote tool today!
How can I avoid excess weight charges?
You can avoid excess weight charges by choosing the right bin size, opting for more frequent collections, or using dedicated waste streams for heavier waste types.
What are the environmental benefits of responsible retail waste collection?
Responsible waste collection reduces the environmental impact, conserves resources, and supports recycling and waste reduction initiatives.
Are there specific laws I should know for retail waste collection?
Yes there are specific laws and regulation for retail waste collection.
Due to the Environmental Act 2021 being enforced from 2024, retailers will now have to separate their commercial waste into different waste categories (e.g. general waste and food waste) and ensure that the waste is not cross contaminated.
Larger retailers will also have to keep detailed records of their waste production.
Confused about the new changes to legislation or exactly what you need to do to remain compliant?
Give one of our friendly advisors a call for some no-commitment help and advice!
What is the Environmental Act 2021 and how does it affect retail waste collection?
The Environmental Act 2021 introduces new requirements for waste separation, obligating businesses, including retail stores, to segregate waste into specific streams like dry mixed recycling, glass waste, and food waste.
Need a quote for the extra bins you’ll need?
Use our online, free quote tool today!
Do I need separate bins for different waste steams in my retail store?
Yes, you do need separate bins for different waste streams in your retail store.
It’s essential to have separate bins for each waste stream, such as general waste, dry mixed recycling, food waste, and glass recycling to ensure that all waste types are properly disposed of and can be recycled where possible.
How can I get commercial waste bins delivered for my retail store?
You can get your commercial waste bins delivered to your retail store by calling us directly or by using our online quote tool.
At Waste Basics, we offer free delivery of all of our bins, and we can work with you to make sure we’ve got the best day and time to deliver.
How often should I review and update my retail store’s waste collection strategy?
You should review and update your retail store’s waste collection strategy every quarter, particularly if you’re a new or fast growing business.
If your business is quite stable and hasn’t changed in size recently, consider reviewing your waste management portfolio once every 6-12 months instead.
If you’d like expert guidance on how to manage your retail store’s waste, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our friendly team.
It’s a good practice to regularly review your waste collection strategy to ensure it aligns with your retail store’s evolving needs and changes in waste regulations.
With our 28,000+ customers, we know exactly what your business will need and are happy to help!
