Martin Handley, the Founder of Scrap Local, an independent network of scrap metal dealers and vehicle recyclers, shares his aspiration to become the JustEat concept within the scrap metal industry.
Scrap Local is the ultimate matchmaker, connecting scrap metal producers with trusted scrap yards. But it’s not just about making connections; Handley envisions his brainchild as the go-to global brand for all things scraps. Inspired by the successes of giants like JustEat and Uber, He envisions transforming the industry using advanced technology and his deep understanding of the field.
With a background in scrap and a passion for website-building and digital marketing, Handley’s eureka moment arrived. He envisioned a digital network where scrap facilities could showcase their commitment to safe and secure recycling. And so, Scrap Local was born. But like any transformative journey, it took time for those initial seeds to sprout and reach for the sunlight.
Leaving his job in 2016 to delve into lead generation and marketing for the scrap industry, Martin laid the foundation for his entrepreneurial venture. Building websites and experiencing success, he leapt in 2018, committing 100% of his time and effort to his business. Little did he know a global pandemic would soon test his resolve.
As lockdowns descended upon the world, Scrap Local faced unprecedented challenges. But adversity breeds resilience, and Martin and his team emerged stronger than ever. They weathered the storm, learning from mistakes and embracing growth. Martin admits that the journey was not without its doubts, “If I’d known then what I know now about running a business, I’d never have done it. But I’m glad I did!”
Today, Scrap Local stands tall, collaborating with local councils and prestigious institutions like the University of Central Lancashire, Boost Lancashire and BeTheBusiness for mentorship support and advice.
In 2022, their revolutionary approach also caught the attention of the global Web Summit – Collision in Toronto, where they proudly represented alongside green tech ‘IMPACT’ companies. Their commitment to reducing carbon emissions and achieving net-zero targets sets them apart as trailblazers in their field.
Thanks to Martin Handley’s dedication, Scrap Local is now a leading name in modern recycling and digital solutions.
Seamlessly connecting metal waste producers with local recyclers, their platform ensures transparency and efficiency throughout the recycling process. Scrap Local has blossomed from humble beginnings, boasting an in-house team, over 150 collection agents, and serving millions of satisfied customers nationwide.
By creating a cloud-based lead management system and streamlining workflows, Scrap Local has transformed its recycling operations. Job and fleet management, payments, and customer communication now thrive in a realm of transparency and automation.
Martin’s vision materialised – From a one-person show from his living room to a dedicated in-house team of forward-thinking professionals. So far, Martin and his team have relaunched the website and created a mobile app upon receiving an INNOVATE UK grant, alongside a brand new bidding system for salvage vehicles.
Such innovation has garnered awareness and recognition from many prestigious bodies, receiving award commemorations as a finalist for several awards, including bodies such as MRW, RWM and GBEA.
With Scrap Local as his vehicle for change, Martin’s plans for the future include a white label of his software and growing his network. Scrap Local are on an investor readiness journey and are actively seeking investment to take the business to the next level.
“I wanted to build a network to help connect the producers of scrap metal waste & end of life vehicles to trusted scrap yards locally. So that scrapyards & their customers can both find recycling easy.”
To find out more about Scrap Local, please visit, scraplocal.co.uk
