Waste Pro American Recycling of Georgia - Comprehensive Analysis Report

Summary

Waste Pro American Recycling of Georgia operates as a pivotal regional facility under Waste Pro USA, Inc., a prominent privately-owned company in the waste collection, recycling, processing, and disposal industry across ten southeastern states. Founded in 2001 by John Jennings, Waste Pro USA, Inc. is driven by a mission to transform the industry into a values-driven service, emphasizing personal customer service, environmental responsibility, and community investment. The American Recycling of Georgia facility, established in Atlanta in 2015, embodies this vision by providing crucial recycling services for a significant residential and commercial customer base, including operations supporting Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. The company aims to recycle up to 95% of collected waste, striving for a clean environment and society, fostering collaboration with local authorities for improved solid waste management, and enhancing community quality of life through sustainable practices and innovation.

1. Strategic Focus & Objectives

Core Objectives

Waste Pro USA, Inc.'s strategic focus, which directly influences the operations of American Recycling of Georgia, is centered on delivering high-standard waste and recycling services with a strong emphasis on sustainability and customer satisfaction. The company aims to be an industry and environmental leader for future generations. Key objectives include:

Maximizing waste recycling efforts to reduce reliance on landfills.

Fostering strong, lasting relationships with customers.

Recognizing and valuing employees through various initiatives.

Investing actively in the communities served to promote local well-being.

Specialization Areas

The company specializes in comprehensive waste and recycling solutions across residential, commercial, and construction sectors. Its unique value propositions include:

Proprietary state-of-the-art waste and recycling solutions that prioritize safety, efficiency, and environmental responsibility.

A learning organization culture that empowers employees to devise innovative solutions tailored to customer and community needs.

Operation of advanced regional recycling facilities like American Recycling of Georgia, which handle high volumes of diverse recyclable materials.

Target Markets

Waste Pro USA, Inc. and its Georgia operations, including American Recycling of Georgia, primarily target:

Residential Customers: Providing regular trash and recycling collection services to households.

Commercial Customers: Servicing businesses of various sizes, including large entities like Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, with solid waste and recycling collection.

Municipalities: Securing exclusive contracts and franchises with local authorities for solid waste management.

2. Financial Overview

Funding History

Waste Pro USA, Inc., the parent company of American Recycling of Georgia, is a privately-owned entity that has demonstrated significant financial growth.

Total Funds Raised to Date: While a cumulative total is not specified, the company's growth has been substantially financed through internal cash flow and profitability.

Recent Funding Rounds:

November 2025: Waste Pro USA, Inc. announced the issuance of Solid Waste Disposal Revenue Bonds totaling $200.0 million. This capital infusion supports ongoing operational needs and strategic investments.

Key Investors:

2009: Roark Capital of Atlanta invested $100 million in the company, providing significant capital for growth and expansion during a crucial period.

Fund Utilization: Funds are utilized for continuous expansion, acquisitions, investment in sustainable technologies (like CNG fleets), and maintaining advanced recycling infrastructure.

Impact on Company Growth: These investments have fueled Waste Pro USA, Inc.'s ability to serve over two million residential and 40,000 commercial customers from more than 75 operating locations, and hold approximately 300 exclusive municipal contracts and franchises, with projected revenues exceeding $900 million in 2022.

3. Product Pipeline

Key Products/Services

Waste Pro USA, Inc. offers a suite of essential services that are delivered through its regional operations, including those supported by American Recycling of Georgia.

Residential Solid Waste Collection:

Description: Regular curbside collection of household trash.

Development Stage: Fully operational and continuously optimized.

Target Market: Residential communities within its service footprint.

Key Features and Benefits: Convenient, reliable service for routine waste disposal.

Residential Recycling Collection:

Description: Curbside collection of recyclable materials (e.g., paper, plastic, cardboard, glass).

Development Stage: Fully operational, supported by facilities like American Recycling of Georgia.

Target Market: Environmentally conscious residential customers and communities.

Key Features and Benefits: Promotes sustainability, reduces landfill waste, and integrates easily into household routines.

Commercial Solid Waste Collection:

Description: Collection of trash for businesses and institutions using various container sizes.

Development Stage: Fully operational and scalable to business needs.

Target Market: Commercial enterprises, industrial facilities, and large institutions, including airports.

Key Features and Benefits: Tailored waste management solutions, reliable service for businesses.

Commercial Recycling Services:

Description: Collection and processing of recyclable materials for businesses, including industrial-scale operations, with capability for both baled and loose materials.

Development Stage: Fully operational, supported by high-tech facilities such as American Recycling of Georgia.

Target Market: Commercial and industrial customers seeking to manage and reduce their waste footprint.

Key Features and Benefits: Comprehensive recycling solutions, environmental compliance, and support for corporate sustainability goals.

Construction and Demolition Waste Services:

Description: Collection and disposal of debris from construction and demolition projects.

Development Stage: Fully operational.

Target Market: Construction companies and developers.

Key Features and Benefits: Efficient removal of construction waste, contributing to project timelines.

4. Technology & Innovation

Technology Stack

Waste Pro USA, Inc. is committed to leveraging technology and innovation to enhance its sustainable practices and operational efficiency, with benefits realized across all its facilities, including American Recycling of Georgia.

Core Platforms and Technologies:

Advanced Recycling Facilities: Operates high-tech plants for processing paper, plastic, cardboard, and glass. The American Recycling of Georgia facility is a prime example of this capability.

Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Fleet and Infrastructure: Utilizes a growing fleet of CNG vehicles and invests in associated fueling stations to reduce carbon emissions.

Hybrid Collection Trucks: Early adopter of hybrid clamshell collection trucks that surpass EPA requirements for reducing exhaust emissions.

Proprietary Developments:

Onboard "Regenerative" Oil Filtering Systems: Extends the life of engine oil and reduces waste.

Anti-wear Armoring on Hydraulic Hoses: Virtually eliminates spills into the environment, enhancing safety and environmental protection.

Scientific Methodologies:

Employs rigorous processes in its recycling facilities to sort and process materials efficiently, maximizing recovery rates and minimizing contamination.

Technical Capabilities:

Investment in energy-efficient technologies, including powering its regional headquarters with solar energy, marking a significant step in sustainable operations.

Continuous evaluation and improvement of services, operations, and processes through a learning organization culture.

5. Leadership & Management

Executive Team

The leadership team of Waste Pro USA, Inc. oversees strategy and operations, impacting regional facilities like American Recycling of Georgia.

John Jennings

Position: Founder

Professional Background: From a family with deep roots in the waste business, Jennings founded Waste Pro in 2001.

Notable Achievements: Spearheaded the company's growth into a major regional player, establishing a values-driven approach to waste management.

Key Contributions: Visionary leader focused on personal service, environmental responsibility, and community investment.

Keith Banasiak

Position: Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer (COO)

Key Contributions: Instrumental in overseeing company-wide operations, ensuring the company maintains its distinguishable service in the industry.

Jerry Harrison

Position: Georgia Divisional Vice President

Key Contributions: Leads Waste Pro's operations in Georgia, responsible for regional acquisitions and advocating for the company's service distinction in the state.

Will Howard

Position: Vice President of Recycling

Key Contributions: Crucial for expanding Waste Pro's industrial recycling customer base and ensuring the full-service capabilities of facilities like the Atlanta Materials Recovery Facility (American Recycling of Georgia).

Shadyra Ortiz

Position: Lead Regional Safety Specialist (RSS) for Georgia and North Carolina

Professional Background: Reports to the Director of Corporate Safety.

Key Contributions: Supports multiple divisions by focusing on safety and quality assurance, ensuring drivers are equipped and coached effectively.

LinkedIn Profile: [https://www.linkedin.com/in/shadyra-ortiz-chrm-18bbb4a8](https://www.linkedin.com/in/shadyra-ortiz-chrm-18bbb4a8)

Recent Leadership Changes

As of January 27, 2026, the updated role of Shadyra Ortiz as Lead Regional Safety Specialist for Georgia and North Carolina highlights the company's ongoing commitment to strengthening operational safety and quality assurance within its leadership structure, particularly in key regions where American Recycling of Georgia operates.

6. Talent and Growth Indicators

Hiring Trends and Workforce

Waste Pro USA, Inc., the parent company of American Recycling of Georgia, exhibits robust growth and a strong commitment to its workforce.

Current Hiring Patterns and Open Positions: The company operates from more than 140 locations across various Southeastern states, indicating continuous demand for talent in waste management and recycling operations.

Key Roles Being Recruited: The focus on operational safety suggests ongoing recruitment for drivers, helpers, and safety specialists. Acquisitions in Georgia, such as in Pickens County and Commerce, GA, led to the establishment of new regional operations facilities, indicating local hiring needs for staff to manage and operate these expanded services.

Company Growth Trajectory Indicators:
- Significant expansion from approximately 1,800 employees across 39 operational locations in 2014 to over 75 operating locations by 2022.
- The Atlanta division alone housed 80 employees operating 50 trucks in 2016, demonstrating substantial regional employment.
- Recent acquisitions in Georgia, taking over services for over 2,700 customers in Pickens County and 194 commercial customers in Commerce, GA, are clear indicators of continued growth and market penetration.

Employee Sentiment and Culture Insights: The projection to award $2 million in Safety Awards for 2026 underscores a strong company culture that prioritizes employee recognition, safety, and well-being. This commitment suggests a positive environment for employees.

Company Size and Expansion Metrics: Waste Pro serves over two million residential and 40,000 commercial customers, holding approximately 300 exclusive municipal contracts and franchises, reflecting its substantial footprint and ongoing expansion in the southeastern United States.