Galesburg’s longest running aluminum can recycling operation will soon close.
G & M Distributors, Inc. announced this week that effective Dec. 1, it will be closing its aluminum can recycling operation. It says the decision comes as a result of market challenges, operational costs, and a diminished need for the center. Despite the closure, G & M says no jobs will be lost.
Adam Vitale, president of G & M, said the company has offered recycling services since the early 1980s. He said they remain committed to promoting environmental sustainability and will continue to explore innovative ways to support recycling efforts in other capacities.
“We recognize the importance of recycling to our planet’s future and encourage residents to continue recycling,” Vitale said. “While this decision was not made lightly, we are focused on navigating the challenges ahead and seeking new opportunities to advance sustainability initiatives.”
Vitale said at one time, G & M was recognized by Anheuser-Busch for recycling 1 million pounds of aluminum cans.
“Since the advent of curbside recycling, our numbers have just gone down drastically,” he said. “And now, we pale compared to what we used to do.”
G & M pays 25 cents per pound for recyclable aluminum, with a deduction for impurities. To thank the community for its support over the years, G & M will be offering an additional 5 cents per pound bonus on all aluminum cans recycled at the center during the month of November.
