Pubs, clubs, and bars generate a diverse range of waste materials, including general waste (such as packaging and non-recyclables), recyclables (like paper, plastics, and metals), food waste, and a large amount of glass waste, primarily from beverage containers like lager, wine and spirit bottles.
Efficiently handling waste in your pub, club, or bar is not only essential for environmental sustainability but also for keeping costs as low as possible.
Implementing effective waste separation and recycling practices not only minimises your business’ ecological footprint but also ensures a clean and inviting environment for your customers and your staff.

1. What Waste Do Pubs, Clubs and Bars Typically Produce?
Pubs, clubs, and bars, typically produce a large amount of the four main waste streams: general waste, dry mixed recycling, food waste and glass waste.
Here’s some examples of the types of waste pubs, clubs and bars typically produce:
General Waste:
- Single-Use Items: Disposable items such as paper napkins, disposable cutlery, and packaging materials.
- Non-Recyclable Packaging: Materials like plastic wrap, Styrofoam, and foil.
- Discarded Decor: Decorative items, signage, or promotional materials that are no longer needed or damaged, such as banners, posters, and seasonal decorations, confetti etc.
- Cleaning Supplies: Empty containers of cleaning chemicals, used cleaning materials like mop heads, and disposable cleaning wipes.
- Non-Recyclable Barware: Items such as plastic straws, stirrers, and disposable cocktail napkins that cannot be recycled.
Recyclable Waste (Dry Mixed Recycling):
- Plastic Bottles and Containers: Empty plastic bottles, especially from beverages and kitchen supplies.
- Cardboard Boxes: Packaging materials and boxes from deliveries.
- Paper Products: Used paper products, including menus, promotional materials, tickets and wristbands etc.
Food Waste:
- Expired or Spoiled Food: Perishable items past their expiration date or spoiled.
- Leftovers: Uneaten food from customers or excess food from food preparation.
- Overproduction/Uneaten Inventory: Unserved or untouched food from the kitchen or bar.
- Spilled/Ruined Food: Food that’s accidentally spilled, overcooked, or otherwise unsuitable for serving.
Glass Waste:
- Wine, Prosecco and Champagne Bottles: Empty, clean wine bottles, which may be of various shapes, sizes and colour.
- Spirit Bottles: Empty, clean bottles which were used for spirits like vodka, whiskey, rum, gin, tequila etc.
- Shot Glasses: Broken or chipped shot glasses that are no longer suitable for use.
- Beer Mugs: Damaged or cracked beer mugs and steins that cannot be repaired and are considered waste.
- Cocktail Glasses: Broken or chipped cocktail glasses and martini glasses that need to be discarded.
- Pint Glasses: Empty or broken pint glasses that have reached the end of their service life.
To find out more about exactly what your waste management will cost your business, you can use our free, online quote tool now!
Confused about what bins to get? No problem!
Feel free to give one of our friendly team a call today or alternatively request a callback at a more convenient time for you.
In addition, your hospitality business may require sanitary or Sharps bins in bathrooms and for cleaning staff to properly dispose of anything left over after the venue has closed.
For these more specialist waste streams, you can get in touch with our sister company, Waste Managed!
If you partner with Waste Managed, you’ll never be charged extra for overweight bins, and you’ll have instant access to a dedicated account manager who will always be there ready to help you with any additional support your hospitality business may require.
Your new account manager at Waste Managed will calculate the cost of your total ongoing waste collection requirements, over the course of a year.
Then, they’ll split this cost into 12 equal monthly payments, providing you with a fixed monthly bill.
This ensures that you’ll always know exactly what payment to expect, which makes budgeting and financial planning so much easier for you and your team.

2. Why Is Proper Hospitality Waste Disposal Important for My Pub, Club or Bar?
Proper waste disposal in bars, pubs, and clubs is essential to save costs, promote sustainability, and adhere to legal regulations for your hospitality business.
These venues can generate various types of waste, including general waste, recyclables, food waste, and glass waste.
Inefficient waste management not only burdens your pub, club or bar with unnecessary expenses but also impacts the environment, which is particularly important for businesses in the hospitality sector that tend to generate huge amounts of waste.
Proper waste management practices are crucial for bars, pubs, and clubs to operate sustainably and minimise their ecological footprint.
A more sustainable business normally has a positive effect on your bottom line.
So, why is waste disposal important?
1. Cost Savings
Efficient waste disposal in bars, pubs, and clubs, with the use of separate bins, can lead to significant cost savings for your business.
The expenses associated with waste collection can vary based on several factors, including the type of waste, the frequency of pickups, the size of bins, and mandatory government-imposed fees for excess weight.
By segregating waste into different categories, such as food waste or recyclables rather than just general waste, the overall weight in general waste bins or mixed recycling bins can be reduced.
This helps bars, pubs, and clubs avoid additional charges due to excess weight in other waste streams.
While the initial investment in additional waste bins may seem like an added cost, it has been proven to be a cost-effective long-term strategy for other hospitality businesses just like yours.
The Breakdown of Cost Savings for Pubs, Clubs and Bars:
Currently, the cost of weekly waste collection for the largest general waste bin (1100L) and the largest dry mixed recycling bin (1100L) in bars, pubs, and clubs stands at £136, plus twice the applicable VAT.
It’s important to note here that this estimate does not include any additional fees related to excess weight, which could potentially increase the cost for these bins.
In bars, pubs, and clubs, excess weight fees are not uncommon, as they often generate substantial amounts of waste, including excessive glass waste from beverages, and heavy food waste.
Did you know that pubs alone produce 873,800 tonnes of waste each year, including 173,000 tonnes of food waste?
That’s the equivalent weight of 1.85 billion pints of beer every single year just from pubs!
By downsizing your general waste bin and your dry mixed recycling bin, and introducing separate waste streams, your venue can reduce this cost to just £105 plus VAT.
This translates to a monthly saving of £31, amounting to an annual savings of approximately £375!
This could be potentially more, depending on the extent of excess waste fees your establishment typically incurs as well.
Deciding to work with a waste broker, (just like us!) to establish an efficient waste management system can lead to significant long-term savings for your bar, pub, or club.
This not only benefits your financial bottom line but also contributes to environmental sustainability efforts in the hospitality industry.
2. Environmental Responsibility
Pubs, clubs, and bars can generate substantial amounts of waste due to the large volume of customers that enter the venues, and the behaviour of generating and disposing of waste in these types of hospitality establishments.
It’s vital for them to take responsibility for their environmental impact by implementing effective waste management practices.
Deciding to use separate waste bins for distinct waste streams, is a smart strategy for these hospitality businesses.
This not only reduces their environmental footprint but can also result in huge cost savings.
Here’s why responsible waste management matters in pubs, clubs, and bars:
1. Diverting Waste from Landfills:
Segregating waste into different categories helps reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills.
Landfills hugely contribute to ongoing environmental issues, particularly the release of harmful methane gas.
A significant portion of the food waste your bar, club or pub puts in the general waste bin ends up in landfills, exacerbating the global climate change crisis.
When pubs, clubs, and bars categorise their waste into separate waste streams such as food waste and dry mixed recycling, rather than lumping it all into general waste, they increase the likelihood of responsible recycling and environmentally friendly disposal.
This supports the environmental sustainability initiative in the hospitality sector.
2. Reducing Methane Emissions
In the lively settings of pubs, clubs, and bars, food waste can be a significant contributor to overall waste.
Venues just like yours will often serve food and snacks, and customers enjoy drinks and entertainment, which can result in considerable waste generation.
When food waste from these establishments ends up in the general waste bins, it may ultimately be disposed of in landfills.
In landfills, without access to oxygen, the food waste decomposes and releases methane, a harmful greenhouse gas.
To tackle this issue, pubs, clubs, and bars can implement a straightforward solution – separate bins for food waste.
Not only does this approach reduce their environmental impact, but it can also lead to cost savings for these establishments, a win-win!
3. Promoting Recycling
In the dynamic atmosphere of pubs, clubs, and bars, where a wide variety of products are sold and consumed, having an efficient and well-structured recycling plan is crucial.
Food waste, glass bottles, paper beer mats, napkins, straws – the amount of waste that hospitality venues produce is almost endless.
If your business has a successful recycling programme, it can hugely cut costs for you as well as contribute to a more green society.
Having clearly labeled and easily accessible recycling bins can encourage both staff and customers to participate in recycling efforts.
3. Legal Compliance
In bars, pubs, and clubs, it’s essential to be aware of and comply with waste management regulations that apply to the entertainment and hospitality industry.
The ‘Environmental Act 2021‘ which was enacted in 2021, establishes legally-binding environmental improvement targets.
This legislation covers all businesses in the UK, including bars, pubs, and clubs.
It’s set to be enforced, starting in April 2024 in Wales, and shortly after in England.
Under the Environmental Act, these establishments will be required to segregate and responsibly dispose of waste.
This entails having designated bins for specific waste types, such as food waste and recycling.
Failure to comply with these regulations can result in substantial penalties for your pub, club or bar.
Managing waste in hospitality may initially appear challenging, but our team at Waste Basics is here to simplify the process for you!
We provide personalised guidance and support to help you establish a great waste management plan, tailored to the unique needs of your venue.
If you’re looking for a quick quote, we offer a user-friendly, complimentary instant quote tool that provides easy access to our prices!
Don’t wait, begin managing waste for your bar, pub, or club efficiently and affordably today!
3. What Are Some UK Pub, Club and Bar Waste Statistics?

Did you know that Britain’s pubs throw away over 40 million pints of beer every single year?
That’s the same as 8 Olympic size pools of waste, just from beer alone!

Nightlife venues like bars, nightclubs and pubs produce over 167 tonnes of food waste every single year, not including any of the packaging that the food arrives in, or any of the packaging that goes home with customers.
That is the same as throwing away almost 850,000 plates of food every single year across the UK.
In a cost of living crisis, it’s easy to see why it’s so important to have an efficient waste management portfolio and ensure the most environmentally friendly and ethical waste management.

Food waste generated by pubs in the UK emits the same quantity of carbon dioxide (CO2) as more than 600,000 cars!
This food waste can come from leftovers and plate waste, over-ordering ingredients, and ruining food by burning it or spilling it.
This quantity of carbon dioxide contributes to climate change, causing extreme weather events and rising temperatures.
Rising temperatures can destroy entire ecosystems, and causes sea levels to rise, destroying land for both humans and animals.
The poor air quality as been scientifically proven to negatively affect human health, and has negative consequences on food security and the economy.

Did you know that food waste costs Britain’s pub operators more than £350 million every single year?
The global food crisis is not just limited to Britain.
Food waste contributes to extreme environmental degradation and food scarcity.
Addressing food waste is essential for sustainability and reducing its economic and environmental impacts worldwide.
If you’re passionate about minimising your business waste for your pub, club, or bar and improving your impact on the environment, then know we’re here to support your journey.
Call us today or request a callback to explore how we can help you make a positive change for your business.
4. What Size Bins are Best for My Hospitality Waste?
Choosing the right size bins for your bar, pub or club is an important decision, which will be based on factors like your venue’s waste storage capacity, the types of waste you generate, and how much waste your business produces.
In nightlife venues, various types of waste, including general waste, glass, plastic, paper, and food waste, are commonly produced.
Waste Basics offers a range of bin sizes tailored to accommodate the specific waste output of bars, pubs, and clubs, ensuring an ideal fit for your specific waste management requirements.
Some venues choose to order a few different bin sizes to effectively meet their waste needs and available storage space.
Our approach is flexible to ensure the most efficient waste management for all of our clients.
If you’re unsure about which bin sizes suit your bar, pub, or club’s waste production, feel free to reach out to our friendly and knowledgeable team!
We’re here to offer completely complimentary guidance and assist you in making the best choice for your waste requirements.
General Waste
Every nightlife venue is unique, and the volume of general waste produced, along with available bin space, can vary significantly.
At Waste Basics, we offer three distinct options to meet your bar, pub, or club’s general waste needs.
Unlike some waste collectors that might complicate things to maximise their profits, we’re committed to providing clear and transparent pricing, every single time.
You can get an instant free quote online or reach out to us for personalised assistance.
We’re here to assist you with your general waste management requirements in your nightlife establishment.
1100L General Waste Bin
Our 1100L general waste bin is the top pick for our clients operating pubs, clubs, and bars.
With a generous pre-collection capacity of up to 70kg, it can handle around 18 bin bags.
This bin stands at 1.40 meters in height and 1.26 meters in width.
660L General Waste Bin
The 660L general waste bin is also a popular choice for many pubs, clubs, and bars in the UK.
It offers a pre-collection capacity of up to 40kg, providing enough room for about 12 bin bags.
This bin stands at 1.3 meters in height and 1.26 meters in width.
240L General Waste Bin
For more streamlined waste management in your venue, the 240L bin is a really practical choice.
It can store up to 15kg of waste before collection, equivalent to about 4 bin bags.
This bin is similar in size to a standard household wheelie bin, standing at just 1.08 meters in height and 0.58 meters in width.
Some nightlife venues opt for this bin in addition to larger sizes, serving as a handy top-up solution when you need a bit more space for your general waste.
Dry Mixed Recycling for Pubs, Clubs & Bars
Just like your pub, club, or bar is unique, the amount of dry mixed recycling produced and the available space for bins can vary among different nightlife venues.
At Waste Basics, we present three clear options to meet your pub, club, or bar’s dry mixed recycling needs.
Unlike some waste collectors that may make things complex in order to get the most profit out of your business as possible, here at Waste Basics, we are dedicated to offering straightforward processes and completely transparent pricing.
You can obtain a free quote instantly online or contact us for personalised support.
We’re here to help!
1100L Dry Mixed Recycling Bin for Pubs, Clubs & Bars
The 1100L Dry Mixed Recycling bin is a favoured choice among our 28,000+ pub, club, and bar customers throughout the UK.
This is mostly due to the fact it’s our biggest size available, with a maximum capacity of 40kg of dry mixed recycling waste.
To give you an idea, that’s roughly equivalent to 115 medium-sized cardboard boxes or about 3,300 plastic bottles!
If you’re unsure about which bin size is right for your pub, club, or bar’s waste, don’t hesitate to contact our friendly team!
They’re here to offer assistance without any obligations and help you make the perfect choice.
Alternatively, use our free quote tool to get instant access to our pricing.
660L Dry Mixed Recycling Bin for Pubs, Clubs & Bars
The 660L dry mixed recycling bin is another excellent option for nightlife venues generating a moderate amount of recyclable waste.
With a capacity of up to 25kg, it can handle about 59 flattened cardboard boxes or approximately 2,500 plastic bottles in total.
240L Dry Mixed Recycling Bin for Pubs, Clubs & Bars
For bars, pubs or clubs with limited space or smaller waste storage areas, our 240L dry mixed recycling bin is a great choice.
It can accommodate 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.
Food Waste for Pubs, Clubs & Bars
At Waste Basics, we’re proud to be an award-winning Waste Broker, dedicated to helping pub, club, and bar owners efficiently manage their waste across all regions of the UK for over 12 years.
Our food waste bins have become a highly appreciated choice among our 28,000+ customers, especially in venues where food waste management can pose a significant challenge.
These bins have consistently proven to be a substantial cost-saving solution for our clients over the long term, mainly because food waste is typically much heavier than general waste.
240L Food Waste Bin for Pubs, Clubs & Bars
Our 240L food waste bin may be compact, but it’s incredibly efficient for food waste storage in pubs, clubs, and bars.
This bin can easily accommodate up to 4 full bags of food waste or a weight equivalent to 100kg, roughly the weight of a standard refrigerator or a small piano!
With dimensions similar to a household wheelie bin (1.08m in height and 0.58m in width), it’s a practical choice perfectly suited for your venue.
If you’re unsure whether it can meet your establishment’s food waste needs, many of our hospitality clients have opted for multiple food waste bins to ensure they always have enough space for their business’ food waste.
Not sure what you’ll need?
Feel free to call us today or request a callback for some no-obligation, free advice.
Alternatively if you want to jump straight to the cost – use our handy online quote tool.
Glass Waste for Pubs, Clubs & Bars
Our glass recycling bin has been thoughtfully chosen to meet the glass waste demands of typical pubs, clubs, and bars in the UK.
We recognise that many nightlife venues encounter difficulties in handling their glass recycling, often due to limited on-site storage.
By listening to the feedback from our 28,000+ clients, we’ve provided an effective storage solution customised for small waste storage facilities.
240L Glass Waste Bin for Pubs, Clubs & Bars
While glass recycling might appear to be a short-term expense, our glass recycling bins have consistently proven to be a cost-effective solution for our pub, club, and bar partners in the long run, often saving them lots of investment.
Glass waste bins offer significant benefits, particularly for nightlife venues that generate a substantial volume of glass waste, mainly from beverage bottles and glasses.
Our 240L glass recycling bin is an excellent choice for efficiently managing your pub, club, or bar’s glass recycling waste.
It can store up to 100kg of glass, which is roughly equivalent to the weight of a standard washing machine!
The bin’s dimensions are similar to those of a household wheelie bin, measuring just 1.08m in height and 0.58m in width.
Depending on your pub, club, or bar’s glass waste collection needs, some of our partners opt for multiple bins to handle higher volumes of commercial glass waste, especially in areas like bars or lounges.
Even if your nightlife establishment 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 are committed to offering transparent pricing.
You can use our free quote tool to get instant cost estimates tailored to your specific needs.
Feel free to reach out for a no-obligation, free call to learn more about how we can assist your pub, club, or bar with efficient glass recycling.

5. What Is The Price of Waste Bins for Pubs, Clubs?
The cost of waste collection for pubs, clubs, and bars can fluctuate depending on factors like the type of waste generated, the volume of waste produced, and how often your waste needs to be collected.
At Waste Basics, we make sure to keep our pricing straightforward and transparent at all times.
When you decide to work with us, you can trust that your expenses will be completely clear, without any complicated fees or hidden costs; unlike other national waste suppliers that can be confusing and expensive.
We prioritise visibility and honesty always so that we can offer our clients complete peace of mind over what they’re paying, what for and when.
General Waste for Pubs, Clubs & Bars
When it comes to waste collection for pubs, clubs, and bars, we offer a range of bin options to suit not only your waste requirements, but your budget.
At Waste Basics, we take pride in our commitment to transparency and affordability.
Unlike national waste collectors who have confusing, often expensive costs and lock you into complicated contracts, with us, you’ll always know exactly what you’re paying for.
Our approach has earned the trust of our 28,000+ satisfied customers in various sectors, including pubs, clubs, and bars, which is why they continue to renew with us time and time again.
The 1100L bin is available at a rate of £80 per month for weekly collections or £40 per month for fortnightly collections.
For a slightly smaller bin, the 660L bin is charged at £60 per month for weekly collections or £30 per month for fortnightly collections.
And for the smallest option, the 240L bin is priced at £45 per month for weekly collections or £23 per month for fortnightly collections.
1100L General Waste Bin for Pubs, Clubs & Bars
The 1100L general waste bin is the largest option available for pubs, bars, and clubs at Waste Basics.
It’s designed to handle around 18 black bin bags or a maximum weight of 70kg.
We offer a weekly waste collection service for £80+VAT per month.
If your venue requires less frequent waste pickups, we also provide the option of fortnightly waste collections, priced at £40+VAT.
If you’re unsure about the right bin size or collection frequency for your establishment, don’t hesitate to reach out to us today.
Looking for a quick cost estimate? No problem!
You can easily obtain a free, instant quote using our new online quote tool!
660L General Waste Bin for Pubs, Clubs & Bars
The 660L general waste bin is another popular choice with pubs, bars and clubs.
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).
For a weekly collection, it costs £60+VAT per month, and the bi-weekly option is available at just £30+VAT.
If you need assistance in choosing the right bin size or collection frequency for your establishment’s general waste, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us.
We’ve also introduced a brand-new, online quote tool designed specifically for your venue’s waste collection needs, providing you with instant access to our pricing.
240L General Waste Bin for Pubs, Clubs & Bars
The 240L general waste bin offers a practical and space-saving solution within our range of commercial general waste bins at Waste Basics, making it an excellent choice for pubs, bars, and clubs with limited storage space or those producing less general 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 approximately 4 bin bags and shares the same dimensions as a standard household wheelie bin.
For pubs, bars, and clubs, we offer a weekly waste collection service at a rate of £45+VAT, and the bi-weekly option is priced at £23+VAT.
If you need assistance in determining the right bin size or collection frequency for your establishment’s waste management, please feel free to reach out to us.
Dry Mixed Recycling Bins for Pubs, Clubs and Bars
For pubs, bars, and clubs looking for weekly waste collection services, the pricing for 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.
If you opt for fortnightly pickups instead, here are our prices: £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 employ confusing pricing strategies with the intention of maximising their profits and charging small businesses high fees.
At Waste Basics, we take a different approach.
From the very beginning of our company, we’ve been committed to complete transparency in our pricing, ensuring that our customers always have a clear understanding of their expenses.
You won’t encounter any hidden costs with us.
Over the past 12 years, our 28,000 customers have deeply appreciated our transparent approach, which is why they consistently choose to renew their partnerships with us time and time again.
1100L Dry Mixed Recycling Bin for Pubs, Clubs & Bars
The 1100L Recycling Bin is the largest choice within our lineup of commercial recycling bins at Waste Basics, and it’s perfectly suited for pubs, bars, and clubs that often generate a huge amount of dry mixed recycling.
It can easily handle a maximum weight of 40kg, roughly equivalent to the weight of 33 full bottles of wine!
For your pub, bar, or club, a weekly waste collection service for your recycling is available at just £56+VAT.
If your venue has a 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 ideal bin size or collection frequency for your recyclable waste, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us today.
Alternatively, you can use our online quote tool to obtain a commitment-free and entirely complimentary quote for your venue.
660L Dry Mixed Recycling Bin for Pubs, Clubs & Bars
The 660L dry mixed recycling bin is another great choice within our selection of commercial recycling bins.
This bin offers a substantial capacity, capable of accommodating a maximum weight of 25kg, which is approximately equivalent to the weight of an average microwave or office chair.
For pubs, bars, and clubs considering a weekly waste collection service for their recyclables, the cost is £48+VAT.
Alternatively, for those establishments that prefer a bi-weekly collection schedule, the option is available at £25+VAT.
If you need assistance in selecting the ideal bin size for your venue or determining the best collection frequency for your recyclable waste, please don’t hesitate to contact our friendly team.
You can also take advantage of our online quote tool to access our pricing for your specific needs.
240L Dry Mixed Recycling Bin for Pubs, Clubs & Bars
The 240L Recycling Bin is the smallest recycling bin available, making it a practical choice for pubs, clubs, and bars that have limited waste storage space.
This bin is designed to efficiently manage a capacity of up to 10kg before collection, roughly equivalent to the weight of about 50 empty pint glasses.
It provides a decent volume for recycling and shares the same dimensions as a standard household wheelie bin.
For pubs, clubs, and bars considering a weekly commercial recycling waste collection service, the cost is £40+VAT.
Alternatively, if your business prefers a bi-weekly collection schedule, the option is available at £22+VAT.
If you need assistance in selecting the right bin size or collection schedule for your waste management, we’re here to assist you.
You can reach out to us directly or request a callback at your convenience.
Ready to find out the cost? You can use our entirely complimentary, hassle-free quote tool whenever you’re ready to explore your options.
Food Waste
The cost for food waste in pubs, clubs, and bars is £40 +VAT per month for a weekly waste collection, and just £20 +VAT per month for a fortnightly collection.
Unlike other waste collection providers you might encounter, such as Biffa, Viridor, or Veolia, when you partner with Waste Basics for your waste disposal needs, you can rest assured there will be no hidden fees or unexpected charges.
We’ve committed to completely fair and transparent pricing since day one – and it’s something our 28,000+ customers truly appreciate!
When you partner with us, you’ll always have complete clarity on what you’re paying for every single time.
Use our free quote tool for instant access to our prices, or simply reach out for a no-obligation, free call to learn more.
Glass Waste
When it comes to glass collection for pubs, clubs, and bars, 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.
Navigating through hidden fees and unforeseen expenses can make it challenging to determine not only the most cost-effective option for your establishment’s waste collection but also the ideal waste broker for your business.
From our inception 12 years ago, we prioritised building strong customer relationships and maintaining transparency.
Our approach has resonated with our 28,000+ satisfied customers in various sectors, including pubs, clubs, and bars, which is why they stay with us for years.
In our experience working with nightlife venues, we’ve observed that most of our clients opt for a weekly glass waste pickup service.
For our partners, this service comes at a cost of just £44+VAT per week.
However, if your establishment generates less glass waste, our fortnightly pickup option offers great value at £22+VAT per month.
To precisely calculate the cost of the waste streams tailored to your venue’s needs and desired pickup frequency, don’t forget to use our online free quote tool.
Are there extra charges for excess weight in pubs, clubs, and bars?
Excess weight is charged at just 20p per kilogram over the maximum weight limit of the specific waste bin(s) your establishment chooses to use.
Excess weight charges are a concern many venues face, especially if you have a higher volume of waste like food waste, which tends to be heavier.
If your establishment tends to generate excess or heavier waste, you may want to consider several options:
- Multiple Bins: You can choose to get multiple bins to distribute the weight more effectively.
- Increased Pick-Up Frequency: Opting for more frequent pick-ups can help manage the weight more efficiently.
- Dedicated Waste Streams: Consider adding specific waste streams, such as a food waste bin, to avoid heavy food waste taking up valuable capacity in your general waste bin.
Additionally, if you’re looking for even more cost-effective solutions, check out our sister company, Waste Managed!
At Waste Managed, you’ll never be charged extra for overweight bins, and you’ll have access to a dedicated account manager who will always be ready to assist you with any additional support you may need.
The Waste Managed team calculates the cost of all your ongoing waste collection needs over the course of a year.
This is then split into 12 equal monthly payments, providing you with a fixed monthly bill.
This ensures that you always know exactly what you’re paying for, making budgeting and financial planning as easy as possible for your pub, club, or bar.

6. What Kind of Legislation Affects My Pub, Club or Bar?
Pubs, clubs, and bars, like all nightlife establishments, must stay informed about current waste collection legislation and any upcoming changes that could impact waste management practices.
Partner with a waste broker just like us, and we’ll take all the thinking out for you!
Current Legislation for Pub, Club, or Bar Waste Collection
Existing legislation in the UK mandates that all businesses, including pubs, clubs, and bars, must take proactive steps to minimise waste by preventing, reusing, recycling, or recovering it.
This includes all waste streams that your venue needs, not just general waste.
For nightlife venues, it’s essential to have the appropriate bins for your specific waste streams like general waste., dry mixed recycling, food waste, and glass waste.
Proper disposal is expected to ensure waste is handled efficiently and responsibly.
By using dedicated bins for different waste streams, your pub, club, or bar can actively contribute to waste reduction and effective recycling practices, all while benefitting your bottom line.
Receive an instant quote for your establishment’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 Pub, Club, or Bar Waste Collection
Nightlife venues should also be aware of impending legislative changes that could impact waste collection practices.
The ‘Environmental Act 2021,’ set to be enforced, introduces new requirements for waste separation.
Under this act, all businesses, including pubs, clubs, and bars, 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, nightlife venues that do not already have these bins in place will need to acquire dedicated dry mixed recycling bins, glass waste bins, and food waste bins.
Much larger businesses will also have to maintain detailed records of all of their waste production and waste disposal for government records.
If you find these changes confusing or need further guidance on how they will impact your pub, club, or bar, rest assured that we at Waste Basics are here to help 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. What is the Pub, Club, or Bar Waste Collection Process?
The pub, club, and bar waste collection process is a simple 4-stage process.
How does nightlife venue waste collection work, and what are the next steps?
1) Choose Your Bins
At Waste Basics, we simplify the process of managing your nightlife venue’s waste collection, ensuring it’s as seamless and efficient as possible.
From the very start of opening Waste Basics, we have been completely committed to transparent pricing, which is why you can see every price on our website, or through our handy quote tool!
This tool provides a breakdown of the costs associated with your venue’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 require and specify the quantity needed.
We understand your establishment’s need for high-quality service at the most competitive rates, and we’re dedicated to helping you achieve just that.
Not sure what bins you need?
Don’t hesitate to contact us by phone or request a callback at your convenience!
2) Arrange Free Delivery of Your Bins
When you choose to partner with us at Waste Basics as your waste broker, you can say goodbye to any unexpected fees for bin rental or delivery.
Other waste collectors may charge huge fees for this service but we understand that you want to keep costs low and get your waste sorted as quickly as possible, which is why we’re here to help you do just that!
We’ll deliver your bins as soon as we can with absolutely no charge.
We value the importance of convenience, and we’ll work with you to establish a personalised delivery schedule tailored to your pub, club, or bar’s unique needs.
Don’t word about any logistical issues like locked gates or secured areas, we can guarantee a seamless operation from the get-go.
3) Fill Up Your Bins
Once the complimentary bins have been delivered to your bar, pub or club’s location, you can go ahead and fill them up with your bar, pub or club’s waste, making sure that each waste stream is properly separated into the correct bin.
4) Get Your Restaurant’s Waste Collected
We’ll work with you to create the best schedule for your nightlife venue’s waste collection, ensuring it aligns your business.
8. FAQs
What counts as commercial waste?
Commercial waste is any waste that business produce.
This could be general, recyclable, food, or any other type of waste as long as a business has produced it.
Are macerators legal in the UK?
Macerators are illegal in the UK.
They have been illegal in Scotland since 2014, illegal in Wales since 2016, and Northern Ireland since 2017.
With the Environmental Act 2021, England will follow suit in 2023.
All food waste will have to be put into a separate food waste bin for collection.
Can you put clinical waste in normal bin?
No, you cannot put any clinical or hazardous waste in a normal bin.
Producers or holders of hazardous waste are legally obliged to exercise a duty of care in the safe and proper storage and disposal of such materials.
Failure to manage medical waste in accordance with these regulations can lead to significant fines, damage to your business’ reputation, and potentially even immediate business closure.
If you require further guidance or support regarding the management of your pub, club or bar’s waste, don’t hesitate to reach out to our sister company, Waste Managed!
They will give you personalised assistance on how to handle your pub, club or bar’s clinical or hazardous waste.
What are the changes to waste legislation in 2023?
The main change to the waste legislation in 2023 is on how your business’ waste must be separated and collected.
The new legislation, the Environmental Act 2021, mandates the separate collection of food waste from all other waste streams generated by businesses.
It specifies that:
- Food waste must be segregated into a distinct bin for collection.
- Food is prohibited from being disposed of in landfills or incinerated; it must be directed towards recycling.
Should you need additional guidance or assistance in managing your pub, club, or bar’s waste, do not hesitate to get in touch with us.
Feel free to reach out today for bespoke support and to ensure the safe and proper handling of potentially hazardous materials.
Are waste disposal units banned in the UK?
Waste disposal units, also known as macerators, are banned in the UK.
They have been banned in Scotland since 2014, in Wales since 2016, and in Northern Ireland since 2017.
Following the Environmental Act of 2021, England will also implement this prohibition in 2023.
Under this regulation, all food waste will be required to be placed in a dedicated food waste bin for collection.
Is waste management a legal requirement?
Yes, waste management is a legal requirement.
This is to ensure safe, responsible, and environmentally-sound waste handling.
Feel free to reach out to us today for support in getting your waste management up and running!
What waste do bars make?
Bars make a lot of the most common waste types, including general, recyclable, food and glass waste.
How can I reduce food waste in my pub?
You can reduce food waste in your pub, club or bar by managing inventory efficiently, controlling portions, and training staff effectively.
With any leftover or unsold food, consider teaming up with a donation programme in your local area or composting to help minimise unavoidable waste.
Keeping better data on what food is being thrown away often could help you reorganise your menu to reduce food waste.
How to get rid of glass sustainably?
You can get rid of glass sustainably by separating your glass waste and sending it for recycling.
Your business should use designated glass recycling bins and ensure proper separation from general waste.
Glass recycling minimises environmental impact as well as reduces your waste disposal costs.
Regular glass audits can help identify opportunities to further enhance recycling practices and reduce waste.
How to dispose of hazardous waste from pubs clubs and bars?
To dispose of hazardous waste from your pub, club or bar, you must have an official hazardous waste bin and take great care when disposing of any hazardous waste.
Managing hazardous materials in nightlife venues requires safe storage, labeling, and proper disposal methods.
Venues should have a designated area for storing hazardous waste, with clear labeling and containment to prevent leaks or spills.
Compliance with local regulations and guidelines is essential.
Establishments should also provide staff training on handling hazardous materials and implement safety measures, such as personal protective equipment.
Partnering with a specialised waste broker to ensure that you’re completely compliant and handling your waste safely and legally is essential.
If you’d like to find out more about disposing of your hazardous waste, get in touch with our sister company Waste Managed.
They are specialised waste brokers with a wealth of experience in managing hazardous waste from pubs, clubs and bars.
Get an online quote today!
What is the impact of new environmental legislation on waste management practices for nightlife venues?
The impact of new environmental legislation on nightlife venues is that they will have to start separating their waste if they are not already.
The Environmental Act of 2021, enforced in Wales from April 2024 with England soon to follow, introduces requirements for waste separation, including dry mixed recycling, glass waste, and food waste.
Compliance with these regulations is necessary, with establishments needing to acquire dedicated bins for various waste streams.
Larger venues must maintain detailed waste disposal records.
It’s crucial for nightlife venues to stay informed about these changes and ensure their waste management practices align with the new legal requirements.
If you find these upcoming changes in environmental legislation confusing or need further guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.
Our experts are here to assist you.
Contact us today for personalised support in navigating and implementing these evolving regulations effectively.