Skittles & Animal Feed – More to the Story
From our Quincy Farm Products subsidiary:
A recent “off-beat” story hit the news: hundreds of thousands of Skittles candies were found covering a Wisconsin highway, which were destined for farms as a feed supplement for cattle.
The story was often covered either as humor or as alarmist concern over candies being used in cattle feed.
Both missed the point. Post-industrial food waste – of many kinds – has long been used to enhance livestock feed.
In fact, the EPA lists Feeding Animals as the third tier in their Food Recovery Hierarchy.
At Quincy Farm Products our business is using food waste to create animal feed products and ingredients with custom mixes of protein, fat, and sugars.
This feed is both nutritious and economical, making it ideal for producers to use in various stages of livestock development.
Fortune and CNNMoney quoted John Waller, professor of animal nutrition at the University of Tennessee as saying “It is a very good way for producers to reduce feed cost, and to provide less expensive food for consumers”.
Food waste to animal feed also provides food manufacturers with a way to divert food waste from landfills, and often to generate a revenue stream from this material.
While it’s easy to chuckle at the thought of a sea of Skittles covering a rural highway, the reality is that using food waste as a nutritious supplement for animal feed is a sustainable way for food manufacturers and processors to divert food from landfills.
Are you involved in food manufacturing and have questions
about food waste and animal feed? Contact us!
Cedar Rapids Starts 2025 With A Bang!
This month, we’re turning the spotlight on our high-performing Cedar Rapids plant, where big things are happening! We checked in with General Manager Chad Crawford to get the inside scoop on all the momentum, wins, and behind-the-scenes magic happening in Iowa. Trust us — you’re going to want to read this one!
We’ve got serious momentum in Iowa as we roll into the second quarter of 2025! We closed out Q1 with a bang — increasing our plant tons sold by over 10% compared to the same period last year. On the brokerage side, we continue to lead the Company and are well on our way to another record-setting year.
At the tail end of 2024, we made a major investment in our facility with the installation of a new baler. It’s been a game changer — easily handling the increased volume coming in and boosting our efficiency. We’ve seen less downtime, better throughput, and more flexibility in how we utilize our plant floor space, which ultimately means more tons shipped each month.
To keep pace with the growth, we’ve also optimized our plant staffing model — ensuring we’ve got the right people in the right places to keep material flowing quickly and efficiently.
But without a doubt, the real driver of our success is our team. Our plant crew has been crushing it, and our office staff continues to perform at a high level. What sets this group apart is the teamwork. They’re not just good at what they do — they’re quick to jump in and help, no matter what’s needed. Around here, you’ll never hear, “that’s not my job.”
Sales Team Highlights
Steve Skidmore (Business Development, 7 years)
Steve is on fire this year! His book of business has grown significantly on both the plant and brokerage fronts, and his pipeline is as full as I’ve ever seen it. I expect 2025 to be his best year yet — and don’t be surprised if he ends up climbing the leaderboard in a big way.
Colin Malanaphy (Sales Coordinator, 6 years)
Colin is managing the largest brokerage book in the Company — over 15,000 tons/month of (mostly) organic waste. This is no small feat, and he makes it look effortless. Truly impressive work.
Katie Plasa (Sales Coordinator, 4 years)
Katie has formed a strong partnership with Steve, and the brokerage business they manage together has taken off. Despite the jump in volume, she’s handled the influx of new accounts like a pro, all while keeping existing relationships running smoothly.
Account Management & Logistics
Gretchen Meyer (Inbound Accounts and Logistics Coordinator, 7 years)
Gretchen continues to be a rockstar — keeping the inbound material flow steady and maintaining great relationships with both drivers and 3rd-party carriers. She’s a natural problem solver and always flags potential issues before they turn into real problems.
Jorge Anaya (Outbound Accounts and Logistics Coordinator, 1 year)
Jorge has hit the ground running in year two. He works closely with our ops team to forecast outbound loads and makes real-time adjustments like a seasoned pro. His upbeat attitude and reliability have been a fantastic addition to the CDR crew.
Operations
Steven Skidmore (Operations Manager, 4 years)
Steven has wrapped up his first full year at CDR and has truly made his mark. He brings energy and enthusiasm every day and has quickly earned the respect of our veteran plant crew. His recent shift and staffing adjustments are already positioning us for continued success through 2025 and beyond.
Exciting Times Ahead for Alsip in 2025!
At Alsip, we’re feeling more excited than ever for what’s to come in 2025. The past year has been one of growth and progress, and we’re continuing to build on that momentum as we move into the new year. We asked the Alsip General Manager John Danker about the Alsip plant, and he gave us a lot to be optimistic about!
New Equipment, New Opportunities
In 2024, we made a major investment in the future of our operations: the installation of the REI shredder with the in-ground feed conveyor. This cutting-edge equipment has been a game-changer for us, allowing for more efficient processing and significantly improving our ability to handle large volumes. We’re proud to share that since the installation, we’ve added around 700 tons of new book accounts, which has enabled us to grow our capacity and better serve our customers. This new addition to our facility not only improves our operations, but it also opens up new opportunities for business growth in 2025. We’re looking forward to taking on even more destruction projects this year!
Our Team: The Heart of Alsip’s Success
While new equipment helps us grow, it’s our team that truly drives Alsip’s success. Each member of our team plays a vital role in making sure we meet our goals, stay organized, and keep safety a top priority.
Brian Sixsmith (11 years) and Nick Stachowiak (4 years) are both fired up for growth this year. With their combined experience, they’re actively seeking new opportunities to expand both our brokerage and plant business. Their dedication and high expectations set a great example for the entire team, and I couldn’t be more proud to support them as they help grow the business.
Cam Dunaway, entering his second year with Alsip, brings a fun and positive attitude to the team. Recently, he has been working closely with Lalo Amasende to ensure that we stay ahead of scheduling, making sure all loads are booked for the current and upcoming weeks. Cam’s proactive approach has been an incredible asset!
Elsa Amasende (4 years) has become indispensable to our team and our vendors. Her quick response time and problem-solving abilities have helped us retain our vendor relationships year after year. Elsa’s ability to close every month on time, no matter how many tons we bring in, speaks volumes about her dedication.
Jill Zayas (6 years) has truly grown within the company. Starting in an outbound ALC position, she now serves in Sales Support, while also stepping in to fill in for various roles when needed. Jill’s current focus is going over the PBA to ensure we’re charging back vendors correctly and tracking trends in fluctuating tonnages. She’s also begun cold-calling the Chicago area to help our sales team get meetings and learn firsthand what goes into conducting successful site visits.
Shelly Rueda (11 years) and Kristy Hamilton (12 years) have been absolute powerhouses in our brokerage division. Together, they consistently move over 10,000 tons per month, and they do it with a sense of teamwork that’s truly inspiring. Shelly and Kristy constantly go above and beyond to add value to both our vendors and customers, all while looking for ways to save on freight and maximize profits. Their collaborative approach has made them an integral part of our success.
Looking Ahead: Growth, Collaboration, and Continued Success
As we move into 2025, we’re excited for the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead. Our team is committed to maintaining a culture of excellence, continuing to push boundaries, and working together to grow Alsip’s success. We’re incredibly proud of the work we’ve accomplished so far, but we know the best is yet to come!
To our team, thank you for your unwavering dedication. You come in every day with a positive attitude, ready to make a difference, and we couldn’t be more grateful. Here’s to another successful year, filled with new projects, strong relationships, and continued growth!
Pictured from left to right: John Vadeboncoeur, Lalo Amasende, Elsa Amasende, Kristy Hamilton, Jill Zayas, Shelly Rueda, Cameron Dunaway, Kurt McLaughlin, Brian Sixsmith, John Danker, and Nick Stachowiak.
Unlocking the Value of Aluminum Litho Recycling with Quincy Recycle
Your used aluminum litho plates hold more value as a recycled resource than discarded waste. At Quincy Recycle, we understand the challenges businesses face in managing scrap materials and waste streams. Aluminum lithographic plates, commonly used in printing and stamping industries, are valuable resources that often go underutilized. Recycling aluminum litho plates not only helps your bottom line but also supports your sustainability goals. Here’s how partnering with Quincy Recycle can unlock the full potential of your aluminum litho scrap.
Why Aluminum Litho Recycling Matters
Aluminum litho plates are made from high-quality aluminum, a material that is 100% recyclable and retains its value through multiple recycling cycles. Instead of sending litho sheets to landfills, where they take up space and incur disposal costs, recycle them for a dual benefit: economic returns and environmental responsibility. Turn your scrap into an opportunity while reducing waste and conserving natural resources.
A Hassle-Free Process Tailored to Your Needs
We know your focus is on running your business as efficiently as possible. Quincy Recycle makes aluminum litho recycling simple and effective. Our nationwide service means we’re ready to assist, no matter where you’re located.
- Flexible Pickup Options: We accept mixed-commodity trailers, so you don’t need to worry about sorting or separating materials.
- Expert Sorting and Processing: Our team ensures your aluminum litho plates are processed correctly, maximizing their value.
- Partnerships with Metal Refineries: We work with trusted refineries to ensure you receive fair market value for your scrap, giving you confidence in every transaction.
Why Recycling Aluminum Litho Plates is a Smart Business Move
Recycling aluminum litho plates isn’t just about sustainability—it’s a smart financial decision. By partnering with Quincy Recycle, you can:
- Reduce Landfill Costs: Avoid disposal fees and redirect those savings back into your operations.
- Generate Additional Revenue: Turn your scrap into a revenue stream with competitive rates for aluminum litho.
- Streamline Operations: Our efficient process minimizes manual labor spent on waste management, allowing you to focus on what matters most—your core business.
Environmental Impact: A Win for Your Business and the Planet
Sustainability is a priority for businesses today. Recycling aluminum litho plates conserves energy, reduces greenhouse gas emissions, and preserves natural resources. In fact, recycling aluminum uses 95% less energy than producing new aluminum from raw materials. By choosing Quincy Recycle, you’re making a tangible impact on the environment while demonstrating your commitment to corporate responsibility.
Common Questions About Aluminum Litho Recycling
- How much are aluminum litho sheets worth?
The value of aluminum litho sheets varies depending on market conditions, but Quincy Recycle ensures you receive competitive pricing every time. - Is the metal recycling process complicated?
No. We handle the details, like pickup or drop off times, so the recycling process fits seamlessly into your current daily operations. - How quickly can we get started?
Right away! Contact us or call 1.800.311.6097 to request a FREE quote.
Why Choose Quincy Recycle?
With over 50 years of experience in metal recycling, Quincy Recycle is your trusted partner for aluminum litho and metal recycling. Our nationwide network, industry expertise, and customer-first approach set us apart. We’re not just here to recycle your scrap—we’re here to help your business thrive. From pickup to payment, we handle every step with transparency and efficiency, ensuring you get the most value from your materials.
Ready to Unlock the Value of Aluminum Litho Recycling?
Don’t let your aluminum litho plates go to waste. Partner with Quincy Recycle to turn your scrap into savings and sustainability. Contact us today to learn more about our aluminum litho recycling services and how we help businesses reduce costs, generate revenue, and make a positive environmental impact. Together, we can create a greener, more profitable future.