As the global focus on environmental protection increases, so does the need to effectively manage industrial waste in line with stringent regulations. Axil is dedicated to providing flexible, integrated waste management solutions that bring clear, tangible benefits to manufacturers.
Axil was founded in 2018 by Managing Director Edward Pigg and has achieved an outstanding 570% surge in sales volume in the last six years. Based in Corby and Cannock and operating across the UK, Axil started with just 34 people, but now employs over 200 team members.
Today, Axil delivers industry-leading total waste management solutions to a growing customer base of some of the most recognised UK manufacturing brands and critical sectors including Beko, Lush, LEVC and BMW Group.
“Our growth has been organic, which is unusual in our sector,” says Pigg. “We set out with the clear goal of supporting customers in achieving sustainability and environmental excellence while reducing cost. Virtually all the waste we collect, except asbestos, is recycled, and we save transport costs for customers by introducing baling equipment to site.”
Partnership approach
Pigg explains that the company focuses primarily on the manufacturing sector that tends to have consistent streams of waste. “Our competitive advantage is that we provide an integrated service- we manage all of our customers’ waste streams. As a one-stop-shop for waste management, there is no need for them to have complexities and sign contracts with multiple suppliers. This full-service approach is the safest and most efficient way to keep their business waste compliant.”
“97% of the waste we collect is recycled. Recyclable materials can be sold, reducing costs by putting waste back into circulation through reuse or recycling,” Pigg explains. “Our gain share model means we are dedicated to unlocking previously unidentified rebates that go back to the customer. This approach not only supports our customers’ environmental goals but also strengthens our partnership with them, reinforcing our commitment to shared success.”
“The most challenging stage of a partnership is the very beginning, when we are implementing the contract, because that’s the time when both parties are getting used to each other. As a supplier, we set high standards to ensure excellent service, and customers may find this a bit challenging at first. However, once we overcome that initial period, everything normalises, and our service aligns perfectly with the customer’s needs.”
Best people, best workplace
Axil’s rapid growth and industry leading reputation are rooted in its dedicated workforce. Pigg says: “I’m genuinely confident that what makes our business different is our people. We make absolutely sure that our people are happy – we pay well, we have introduced incentive schemes, we provide tailored training and development. We really try to look after our front-line people, because without them, I haven’t got a business.”
Indeed, the company is well recognised as a good employer that looks after its people. “We manage our people differently than our peers in the sector, making us a destination for good people. Our workplace is not just about tasks – it is a space for fun, exploration, innovation, and growth. We’re all about pursuing excellence while enjoying every moment.”
The investment made in Axil’s workforce has clearly paid off – the company has recently been recognised as one of The Sunday Times Best Places to Work in the UK 2024. “97% of our employees express pride in being part of the organisation, with everyone dedicated to providing exceptional service. This recognition mirrors our commitment to creating a workplace where everyone feels appreciated and motivated. It is even more valued as my people don’t sit in the comfort of offices – 70% of my staff work in challenging conditions, in all weathers, outside, handling waste, yet they still love being part of the company.”
Pigg speaks highly of the young generation. “Some of our best staff with the most potential are our youngest, the ‘Zoomers’ we have employed straight from school or through apprenticeships. It’s been great to see how they’ve developed over the years, with promising careers in front of them.”
“On the flip side, our experienced colleagues bring invaluable expertise, creating a dynamic blend of youthful drive and mature experience, creating a spirit of great teamwork and collaboration,” he says, affirming that the company will remain committed to preserving its defining family culture, emphasising equality and camaraderie.
On track towards ambitious targets
The collaborative culture extends to Axil’s suppliers. “We see our suppliers as true partners. It is important that when our customers have an issue, our suppliers can help us.”
Such close relationships were a clear advantage during the pandemic, which was seen as an opportunity, rather than a hindrance, he continues. “We remained flexible and continued working during the pandemic. When a company needed to dispose of Covid testing waste, we provided a solution that became a multi-million-pound opportunity. From that moment we never looked back – we set up a logistics business in just five days flat, becoming the only waste management company to provide this service at that time.”
With this attitude and determination, it comes as no surprise that Axil expects no downturn in its growth. “We have a track record of meeting manufacturers’ tough requirements, and we have the right people in place. Our ambition is to get us somewhere close to £50 million turnover over the next 12 months. Essentially doubling the business, and we are on track to meet that target.”
Find out more at: axil-is.com
