Beacon Recycling Embarks on an Expansion to Build Sustainable Practices in Metal Recycling
Environmentally Responsible Company Creating a More Sustainable, Green Future for West Michigan
Muskegon, MI – Greater Muskegon Economic Development (GMED) announced today that Beacon Recycling is launching a transformative project to bolster its metal recycling capabilities and sustainability efforts in West Michigan. Commemorating its 25th year of recycling metals, paper, and plastic in the region, Beacon Recycling unveils plans for an 80,000 square foot renovation at its facility located at 1241 East Keating Avenue which will include advancements in its infrastructure and operations.
The first phase of this ambitious initiative marks the installation of a state-of-the-art metal shredder machine. This cutting-edge addition will revolutionize the efficiency of Beacon Recycling’s metal sorting process, significantly reducing the quantity of metal directed to scrap yards. By enhancing size precision and sorting capacity, the new shredder machine will optimize metal recycling, positioning Beacon Recycling as a leader in sustainable recycled materials management.
The second phase of this expansion is establishing a Materials Services division dedicated to sorting, preparing, and scrutinizing metals for re-use. This division will specialize in the testing of metal quality, ensuring that the recycled materials meet exacting standards. The reprocessed metals will then be reintroduced to foundries for re-melting, culminating in a closed-loop recycling system that minimizes waste and maximizes resource efficiency.
“Beacon Recycling is celebrating our 25th year of business and excited to continue our history of successful growth in West Michigan,” stated Grant Bolhuis, Chief Operating Officer of Beacon Recycling. “Today we announce two significant investment projects in metals processing and recycling infrastructure at our Muskegon recycling hub. We look forward to continuing to grow our recycling capabilities and footprint and appreciate the support from the City of Muskegon, as well as the MEDC, to make these projects become a reality.”
The expansion project is anticipated to generate a total capital investment of $17.5 million, signaling Beacon Recycling’s steadfast commitment to its mission of sustainable and environmentally responsible recycling practices. Moreover, this strategic expansion is expected to create new 36 employment opportunities, doubling its current size and bolstering the local economy by creating valuable job prospects for the community.
Marla Schneider, President/CEO of Greater Muskegon Economic Development, expressed enthusiasm for the project, stating, “GMED is proud to support the sustainable efforts of Beacon Recycling by assisting with the expansion of its operations and services. This expansion is a testament to Muskegon’s commitment to fostering environmentally responsible practices within West Michigan. We’re dedicated to working with companies that are driving positive change and creating a more sustainable future for our community.”
The expansion is to be completed in the third quarter of 2026 and the company will receive a combined incentive package of $2,470,434 from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, West Michigan Works!, and the City of Muskegon.
“The City of Muskegon is grateful for this substantial investment from Beacon Recycling, a long-standing corporate partner in our community,” said Jake Eckholm, Director of Development Services for the City of Muskegon. “These 36 new full-time, well-paid positions and nearly $18 million of facilities and equipment investment are another example of Beacon making consistent investments in Muskegon. This project and many others in our city would not be possible without our strong partnership with the MEDC and our local EDO, Greater Muskegon Economic Development.”
About Beacon Recycling
Beacon Recycling, Inc., established in 1999, is a metal, paper, and plastic recycling company that provides a single-source solution to sustainable scrap management clients. The company services customers in a wide range of industries including automotive, aerospace, food processors, advanced manufacturing, furniture and medical devices. The company is headquartered in Muskegon and has an additional location in Traverse City, with a total of 35 employees.
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