Each year, ReStore in New Brighton, Minnesota keeps at least 690 tons of Twin Cities building materials from entering the landfill! With amazing recycling results under their belt, Restore is always aiming at doing more to help the Earth. They are building a new ReStore in South Minneapolis, scheduled to open in September, with help from many pro bono labor and gifts in-kind. ReStore’s core philosophy revolves around the 3 R’s – Reduce – Reuse – Recycle. Since they are recycling building materials, baling their own cardboard was a logical next step for them. With similar recycling and environmental goals, ReStore and Harmony Enterprises Inc. are working together to help make an even greater impact to the environment.
What is ReStore?
ReStore collects building materials and home improvement supply donations – anything from lumber and tools to doors and appliances, as long as they are clean and functional. ReStore is open to the public to shop for quality building supplies and home furnishings at a fraction of the cost of new products. The proceeds from ReStore supports the Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity’s work of building, rehabing and repairing homes for hard-working local families.
Taking Cardboard Recycling to Next Level
ReStore purchased two of the M60CB Cardboard balers – one for use in their current New Brighton, MN store, and one for the new Minneapolis, MN Store that is scheduled to open soon. Jill Carmody, ReStore Store Manager explained, “Many of the smaller donations we receive, such as tools, arrive at the ReStore Donation Door in a cardboard box. Prior to getting the baler, we flattened the cardboard and included it in with our construction waste, which is sorted and recycled. Now, with the cardboard baler, we have a desired single source solution for our high volume of cardboard we receive.”
“ReStore projects that our yearly waste expense will be reduced by at least 20%. This savings means we can make a greater impact for Twin Cities’ families in need.”
Cardboard Baler Fits ReStore’s Budget and Future Growth
When choosing a baler, ReStore outlined their needs and researched their options carefully before making a decision. In the end, the Harmony Enterprises cardboard baler best fit their needs and budget. Pete O’Keefe, ReStore Operation Senior Manager, explained, “Harmony Enterprise’s cardboard baler fit our price point and scaled appropriately for both our current needs plus future growth.”
Projecting 20% Less Waste Expense
For companies and organizations who are considering the investment in a cardboard baler, Pete’s advice is simple – start now. He explains, “The payback from the reduced refuse costs and/or cardboard revenue only occur when you have the baler up and running. The longer you wait to invest in a baler, the more is lost in revenue and landfill space.” Jill knows that the addition of the baler means a greater savings both financially and environmentally, “With the addition of the new cardboard baler, ReStore projects that our yearly waste expense will be reduced by at least 20%. This savings means we can make a greater impact for Twin Cities’ families in need.”
ReStore Habitat for Humanity Facts
- Over 10,000 donations of building materials from the Twin Cities community each year.
- Over 3,000 volunteers help us run the ReStore each year via 4 hour shifts as cashier, donation assistant or merchandiser.
- The New Brighton store exceeded $1M in sales last year, with profits providing sponsorship level equal to building six additional Habitat homes.
Harmony Enterprises, Inc. is excited for the opportunity to work with ReStore Habitat for Humanity and play a small part in the big goals that they are accomplishing. You can follow the Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity ReStore on Facebook, Twitter, or visit their website at https://restore.tchabitat.org.
If you would like to learn more about our recycling and waste management solutions, such as the M60CB Vertical Cardboard Baler that ReStore is using, please contact us at (507) 886-6666 or fill out this simple form.
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