Beautification Trust Acquires Packaging Recyclers

The Beautification Trust is proud to announce the acquisition of Packaging Recyclers Limited, a family-owned West Auckland business known for its practical reuse and recycling services.

The official change of ownership takes place on 1 October 2025. It marks a significant step in the Trust’s strategy to diversify income and scale its impact in Aotearoa’s growing circular economy; adding a proven commercial operation to its growing suite of community zero waste initiatives.

“This acquisition strengthens our long-term financial sustainability and opens new doors to support the commercial sector to be more environmentally sustainable. It enhances our credibility in the circular economy and broadens the ways we can deliver zero waste solutions,” says Beautification Trust CEO Daniel Barthow. “With a loyal customer base and a capable team already in place, the business is set up to support our growth while staying true to our mission.”

Packaging Recyclers has kept more than 22 million cardboard boxes in circulation to date.

Founded in the 1980s, Packaging Recyclers has helped local businesses reduce waste and save costs for nearly four decades. Its Cardboard Recycling Service, which prioritises reuse over traditional recycling by buying back used boxes and returning them to market, has kept more than 22 million cardboard boxes in circulation to date. In the last year alone, its work avoided around 1,904 tonnes of carbon emissions. The company’s secure document destruction service also stands out for recycling shredded paper, rather than sending it to landfill.

“Our environmental impact has always been a central part of our decision-making,” says Packaging Recyclers Owner Ken Macfarlane. “That’s why we are proud to hand over the reins to the Beautification Trust. Their values and goals align closely with our own, and we know the business and our customers will be in great hands as they lead the next chapter in Packaging Recyclers’ story.”

Under the Trust’s leadership, Packaging Recyclers will continue operating with its current team and General Manager, ensuring a smooth transition for customers. The only difference: buying from Packaging Recyclers now means supporting a great cause. All profits will be reinvested into environmental education, conservation, climate action and zero waste programmes across Auckland.

With this acquisition, the Beautification Trust becomes one of few social enterprises operating in the business-to-business reuse space, furthering its mission to connect and empower communities to learn, love and look after our environment.