25 years in the metal recycling game and still learning and growing...

I learnt from the best and worked my way up from yard labourer to Executive Director of Trading and Operations for the largest metal recycler in sub-Saharan Africa. Responsible for 4,500 employees, 85 sites, and the overall profitability of a multi-billion dollar operation.

Brought my breadth and depth of knowledge to bear and co-founded the fastest growing, most-loved, and most awarded metal recycling company in New Zealand. No small feat in a country where people are outnumbered 4:1 by sheep (spoiler alert: sheep don’t produce much metal).

I thought it was time that tech worked for our industry, so I took all of my experience as an operator and trader and leveraged that to build THE killer scrap app, Buddy. Thats right - built for scrappies, by scrappies.

Father of two crazy-awesome boys. Husband to Lisa. Under 10 football coach. YPO member. Lifelong learner. Mentee. Mentor. Chief dog walker. Committed Stoic. Undefeated dance-off champion.

PS - if you are a scrap metal exporter looking to up your game, tune into my podcast Born Scrappy https://tinyurl.com/BornScrappy

PPS - if you’re looking to make better trades with less effort, check out the industry’s first and only relationship-led marketplace, Buddy www.tradebuddy.io

Stuart Kagan

We're incredibly honored to be featured on the front page of Recycling International this month.

"Meet Buddy - The marketplace reshaping scrap metal trading"

A huge thank you to Martijn Reintjes for the spotlight and for telling our story.

"Scrap trading will always be relationship-led. No interface can replace earned intuition. 

But the workflow around those relationships is changing - towards ongoing inbound visibility, clearer signals, and tools that let buyers both respond to supply and actively stimulate it. 

As sourcing becomes more inbound and trade records more structured, platforms that help suppliers find a home for their metal - and help buyers find reliable, quality supply - are beginning to define the next operating standard. 

In that environment, the real risk may not be adopting new tools too early but adopting them too late."

#MetalRecycling #ScrapMetal #BuddyMarketplace

The metal recycling industry is built on relationships. 

Or is it?

I spent years questioning the real value of relationships in the scrap game.

For a long time I felt like, to be honest, it's really all about the money.

At the end of the day, we just in it to make profits and move on.

Yes that's true, we are in this to be successful and profitable.

But then a few years ago I looked around and saw mates.

Friends I call in hard times and also celebrate wins with.

Relationships that go deeper than just the business.

People I care about and want to see be successful.

In their business and in their personal lives! 

I started to ask myself a simple question.

Would I call them if I left the industry.

The answer is almost always YES.

This year for me is about growth.

Growing all my relationships.

Being there for my friends.

And celebrating them.

We in this together.

Are you with me?

#MetalRecycling #ScrapMetal #Relationships

A younger me had spent over 10 years working in the yards. 

So to get out there and do it all again was never an issue.

11 years ago I went from fancy offices in Johannesburg, running 85 yards with 4200 people. 

To opening a tiny little scrapyard in Auckland, New Zealand.

Being only me working there in the beginning was super humbling.

Offloading vehicles, processing metal, dealing with customers etc

I had to do it all. But I had a vision and I was hungry as f*-k.

If it wasn’t for all those hard yards in my 20s.

I wouldnt have been able to do what I did.

If it’s feeling tough for you right now.

Just know that you’re learning.

And getting ready for more.

I wouldn’t change a thing.

How did you train? 

#MetalRecycling #ScrapMetal #HardYards

No alternative text description for this image

Live footage of me onboarding a new Buddy yard.

The scrap yard is definitely my happy place. 

I love being in a metal recycling yard.

I’m blessed to do it often lately.

But more importantly!

It’s Friday, I’m a happy guy!

Why not do a little dance.

Maybe make a little love.

Even get down tonight! 

Happy Friday y’all!

#RecyclingDance #HappyFriday #GetDown

“If we’re not proud when we drive up to our yard,
then we shouldn’t own it.”

George Adams from SA Recycling never misses on stage!

This morning he reminded us all what real leadership looks like.

No excuses.
Just discipline.

👊 153 yards
👊 153 financial statements
👊 within 5 days of month end

The secret to his incredible leadership.

🚫 Not top down.

⬆️ Bottom up.

The corporate team works for the yards.
Not the other way around.

Sharing profits with managers motivates more than any mission statement.

People are your greatest assets.
If you actually treat them like it.

Biggest takeaway for me:
Great yards don’t just need a manager.
They need a hunter.

Do you agree with the above?

#MetalRecycling #ScrapMetal #Leadership

I couldn't run a scrap metal company.

Without this 1 super-power!

Without ADHD there is now way I'd be where I am today.

It's crazy that its considered a problem with youngsters.

Of course studying was almost impossible at school.

But there were different things I was good at.

Lets be very clear, we're not all the same.

Some can sit at their desk for days.

(My mom called that a$$ power.)

While I was doing 100 other things.

I was good at solving problems though.

Smashing out multiple tasks at the same time.

Constantly making decisions and moving forward.

This is what helped me grow in the industry.

I wouldn't have it any other way!


Do you think ADHD is a super-power or not?

#MetalRecycling #ScrapMetal #ADHD #Entrepreneurship

This week on Born Scrappy.

I chat to Steve Deacon.

Chief Commercial Officer at EMR Group.

One of the sharpest commercial minds in scrap.

We talk about mastering margin.

Where it disappears.

Why position matters more than price.

And how culture beats equipment every time.

If you want to run a tighter yard, this one’s for you.

Steve Deacon didn’t plan on getting into scrap. In fact, two weeks before graduating college, he didn’t have a job at all. That changed when he landed

Open article: Steve Deacon on Mastering Margin by Stuart Kagan • 3 min read

The Copper price flying is not all positive.

It usually reduces return on capital significantly.

Today we see Dr Copper back up to crazy heights.

And although most on social media are excited.

It's not as straight forward for metal recyclers.

Yes, if you are one of those lucky companies.

That has been sitting on copper for months.

Then this is a great run for you, no doubt.

I bet you waiting for it to run even higher.

But for the rest of us day to day traders.

It does not simply mean more profit.

You see not all markets have a % margin.

When your competition is fighting hard.

Often your margin is a fixed amount.

Now you are paying a higher price.

For the same gross margin.

I only have this advice.

Move the metal.

Be careful.

Are you selling or holding?

#MetalRecycling #ScrapMetal #CommodityTrading

Buddy vibes!

Our team is amazing.

There’s something about getting the team together in person that makes me excited. 

I had the great pleasure of running our Sales Kick Off this week.

Everyone is super excited for what lies ahead this year. 

We’ve only just started the journey we’re on.

The last year we focused on getting it right.

We wanted to prove out what we offered.

This year we’re going to spread the love. 

We’re getting out there to show it off.

Get more users making more money.

We may pitch up at your yard soon.

Trust me it’ll be worth the chat.

2026 is going to be awesome.


PS: Next time we will get the NZ team to join us too. 😎

#MetalRecycling #ScrapMetal #SKO

The gates aren’t open yet.

But the day has already started.

The best scrappies I know win their day before it begins.

They don’t get in early to catch up from the day before. 

They get in early to take control of the day ahead.

Before the day takes control of them.

What does a winning morning look like to me?

👟 A yard walk.
 I do the same route. Every day.
 Check the piles. Check the roads.
 Notice all the small things hiding.
 Before they become big problems.

👷‍♂️ A team talk.
Safety topic.
The plan for the day.
Let the team speak openly.
This is where I learn the most.

🎯 A reset.
See who’s foggy.
Who’s distracted.
Who’s ready.
Motivate.

You don’t need more time.
You need more intention.

Mornings are where your standards live.
Where your risks get spotted.
And your culture shows.

Make them count.

#MetalRecycling #ScrapMetal #Mornings

Born Scrappy is back.

Next we we launch season 5.

We have more than 12 masterclass episodes.

With incredible guests like:

Steven Zusman - Metro Metals  
Neil Byce - CW Metals
Steve Deacon - EMR 
Craig G. Weber - Metal Exchange 
Bob Alvarez - Shapiro 
Evan J Schwartz - AMCS Group 
Ryan Fogelman - Fire Rover 

I’m super excited for this season.

There’s more value than ever before.

Let me know what you think of this line up.

There’ll also be a few surprise changes.

So get ready for the upgrade.

Next week we back.

Let’s go!

#BornScrappy #MetalRecycling #ScrapMetal #Podcast

I recorded an episode of Born Scrappy this week.

A masterclass on Mastering Margins.

It was a great deep dive into things that really matter.

So often we focus on stuff that doesn't turn the dial.

Most of the time the best way to steady the ship.

Is to completely focus on how to buy for less.

Then in turn - look at how to sell for more.

Seems super simple, I know... I get it.

But as owners or managers.

We often look elsewhere.

The big tough things.

Think differently.

Start simple.

Buy well.

Sell well.

#MetalRecycling #ScrapMetal #Margins

Time for some more BS.

What do you want more or less of?

We start recording Born Scrappy Season 5 next week.

This season we doing 12 x Masterclasses.

The episode topics look a bit like this:

- Moving From “Good Yard” to “Great Business”
- The Scrap Operator’s Guide to Cash Flow
- Technology of the Future (Demystified)
- Navigating market consolidation
- The Art of Buying Scrap
- Keeping great people
- Pricing like a pro
- Safety first

We have some incredible guests lined up.

And I'm super excited for this season.

Help me make the show better.

What do you like about it?

What do you not like?

Born Scrappy

Season 5

Coming

Soon!

#MetalRecycling #ScrapMetal #Podcast #MasterClass

Do you ever catch someone doing something right and celebrate it?

Do you say something like “I love that you’re doing that, thank you!”

I heard this from Simon Sinek and I absolutely love it. This was never something I proactively looked for.

Yes if we kick a goal I’m all about celebrating with the team. But I never stop and look for someone doing something right. 

This is so powerful because not only does it make that person feel great. It shows your team you value them.

So many times I would see my team go the extra mile for a customer. 

It’s what I expected them to do, so no praise needed.

I was wrong! This is when you have to celebrate them.

Let them know you appreciate them.

And let others know too.


Do you know someone who does this well?

Or can you do better? 

#Leadership #MetalRecycling #Celebrate

Optimist, New York Times bestselling author of "Start with Why" and "The Infinite Game", and founder of The Optimism Company

Great leaders see and invest in employees as whole persons.
Which of these approaches can you try out this week?

Video from Chick-fil-A Next 2025, in conversation with Chief Legal Officer Lynette Smith

United Metals Recycling

3rd generation operated scrap metal recycling organization founded in 1972 by my grandfather. Our company specializes in servicing retail and commercial (B2B) customers' recycling needs. We drive value for our customers by identifying strong markets for their recyclables and creating a customer service experience second to none. 

We have grown from 1 location in Caldwell, Idaho to 8 full service scrap metal recycling facilities in Idaho and Oregon. Our brands and Partners include B&K Recycling & Auto Salvage and CBASS Recycling & Auto Salvage.

Our client base includes some of the largest manufacturing companies in the Northwest and our services include the following: 

Complete Facility Scrap Management
Asset Disposition
Demolition
Transportation/Logistics
Mobile Processing

RECYCLING

TV Pipe Supply

Founded in the 1950's TV Pipe Solutions and Supply is currently one of the largest steel culvert distributors in the US. Our key partnerships with experts in the pipe manufacturing and distribution have allowed us to grow into a full service solutions based company over the years enabling us to efficiently and effectively service the following markets:

Complete line of Corrugated Metal & HDPE Pipe Sizes
Complete Slip Lining/Pipe Rehabilitation Portfolio
Storm Water Detention and Filtration Systems
Bridges and Bridge Decking

We currently operate 3 fully stocked Pipe locations for the following items across the states of Idaho and Oregon.

PIPE

United Hauling

Started in 1974 with the purpose of transporting recycled scrap metal to the west coast, United Hauling now operates as a full service logistics and transportation company. Specializing in heavy haul transport for flat bed freight, United Hauling's efforts are still primarily focused on hauling recycled scrap metal in the North West and Rocky Mountain regions with return freight focused around lumber and various building products.  Proudly operating a fleet of Peterbilt trucks and Western Trailers 53' Flat beds, United Hauling takes pride in our fleet and attends many trucks shows across the country.

TRANSPORTATION

Tire Reclaim

A business started as a way to solve our own tire generating problem, Tire Reclaim is a full service tire recycling and processing company that has the ability to manufacture various Tire Derived products from TDF (tire derived fuel) to crumb rubber for athletic fields and playgrounds, and so many other great applications.  

Operating a state of the art Jomar Machining complete tire processing plant as well as two Tana mobile tire shredders we have the ability to handle everything from large volume cleanups with thousands of tons of tires to small pickups with a few hundred tires. 

We offer 7 drop off locations Idaho and Oregon including 2 processing locations to service the states of Idaho and Oregon. Our services also offer multiple on-site pick options including: route truck pickup, 40yard drop boxes, 28' and 53' trailers for customers who have the means of filling them and our team will bring them back to our sites for further processing and recycling.

TIRES

United Storage

Storage facilities comprised of covered RV and Boat storage space as well as larger units and open space for industrial/business storage needs.

STORAGE

Recycled Media

Recycled Media, headquartered in Idaho, is at the forefront of transforming the recycling sector's marketing landscape. Their avant-garde media strategies shine a spotlight on opportunities and emphasize the importance of metal recycling. Founded in 2019 by Brett Ekart, owner, and CEO of United Metals Recycling, Recycled Media has excelled in podcast production, social media outreach, and brand recognition.

With an unwavering commitment to raising awareness in an industry often overlooked, Recycled Media produces over a dozen podcasts a month and is poised for further expansion. The company's proven methods have yielded remarkable results, and their goal is to extend these successful strategies to their clients.

Founder

A Scrap Life

This podcast is solely dedicated the the scrap metal recycling industry, where I seek out interesting stories and great people in our industry to sit down with me and discuss how this industry has played a role in their life. 

In an effort to keep it honest and fun, I am always on the lookout for interviews with people who believe in, and have a similar passion for the scrap metal recycling industry as I do!

PODCAST

Recycled Idaho

Traveling around the great State of Idaho with my friend and colleague Nick Snyder, Recycled Idaho aims to spotlight organizations and individuals who are making a difference ENVIRONMENTALLY and ECONOMICALLY in Idaho. 

Growing up in the recycling industry and understanding that there are so many organizations and individuals who are "doing the RIGHT thing" it is our focus to help get these stories out there and let the general public in on some of the real hidden gems that the GEM STATE has to offer and be proud of.

Converter Reclaim 

Founded in 2014, Converter Reclaim is subsidiary of United Metals Recycling that specializes in catalytic converter recycling purchasing and processing and decanning. Converter Reclaim has a state of the art decanning operation at its Caldwell, ID facility with the ability to safely and efficiently process large volumes of catalytic converters.

Copper Reclaim

Established as the first mobile "weigh and pay" Idaho recycling company,  Copper Reclaim focuses solely on copper bearing materials such as copper wire, and has the ability to pick up and pay for material at job sites or your facility directly eliminating the hassle of hauling the material to a recycling facility. The on-board scales ensure weights are accurate and the weekly "wire recovery videos" aim to eliminate any questions of what your copper bearing scrap's true value is.

A dad, a husband, a guy from Idaho who loves to build businesses with his friends. As time goes by I have found myself enjoying the journey, the process, and the hustle far more than the destination… a little bit of what we do and who we are: 

Recycling: 

The United Metals Recycling Division of our organization was founded in 1972 by my grandfather with a small scrap metal recycling operation in Caldwell, Idaho. Now with 8 full service scrap metal recycling facilities in Idaho and Oregon, United Metals Recycling continues to expand our recycling opportunities through our newest ventures. Converter Reclaim, Copper Reclaim and most recently Tire Reclaim where our goal remains to continue exceeding customer’s expectations in our day to day traditional operations. 

Transportation / Logistics: 

The United Hauling Corp. organization focuses on flatbed heavy haul transportation and logistics. Founded in 1974 with the purpose of hauling scrap metal to the Northwest and West Coast and return hauling building materials inland as Idaho, Oregon, Utah and other surrounding states began experiencing exponential growth. 

Corrugated Pipe Sales:

TV Pipe Supply was founded in 1957 in Caldwell, ID and was acquired by the Ekart family in the late 70's.  An integral part of our organization, TV Pipe Supply is a direct supplier of culvert steel pipe and culvert HDPE and has become one of the largest corrugated steel pipe suppliers in the country.

Real Estate/ Storage Facilities:

United Storage is a multi facility storage company that focuses on RV/Boat and larger sized units. Based out Idaho with facilities in Idaho Falls, Mountain Home and more in the planning and development stages this an exciting addition and diversification of our holdings. With emphasis on space and convenience United Storage was developed to support all of forms of recreation and industrial storage needs. 

Media: 

Beginning with a single podcast and a mission to create brand awareness around businesses that we owned and operated, Recycled Media was born.  

Today we produce and host over a dozen podcasts every single month with a mission to revolutionize how the recycled materials industry promotes itself. 

A few of those podcasts include: 

A Scrap Life- hosted by myself, interviewing owners and operators throughout the recycled materials industry. 

Talkin’ Tires- hosted by Craig Hunter, discusses all things tires and tire recycling. 

Recycled Idaho- hosted by Nick Snyder

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