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Our people are important to us at UNTHA UK — after all, without their knowledge and expertise we would be unable to deliver the five-star customer service that we’re so famous for.

So, each month we quiz a different colleague on 10 quickfire questions that offer a little more insight into why they play such an important and valued part of our growing team.

Next up, it’s David Gudger, our recently-appointed project and installation coordinator…

1.How did you first get into the world of shredding?

This is actually my first role in the shredding industry – my previous employer used to shred excess polypropylene (PP) material. UNTHA has fully introduced me to this world and how high-performance shredding systems help businesses drive efficiencies, cut costs, and unlock growth. 

2. What’s the one skill or quality that helps you succeed in the UNTHA environment?

A problem shared is a problem halved, and there is normally a solution to be found when we work as a team. So, I like to make sure I’m approachable for all of our staff, whether that be to tell me good or bad news. 

3. Name one highlight from your UNTHA venture so far.

Arranging for a shredder to be delivered, installed, and commissioned at a previous employer’s factory (Paralloy). It was great to touch base with the operatives on site. Plus, since I was already aware of the company’s site processes, I knew how the purchase of an UNTHA shredder would streamline operations and reduce overheads, such as hiring additional skips or sending waste off site to be processed by a third party.

4. How do you unwind at the end of a busy day at work?

After a day at UNTHA UK, I like to unwind by walking my dogs, cycling, or spending time with my wife and daughter. 

5. What’s the best piece of work-related advice you’ve ever received?

“If it was your money, would you be happy spending it to receive the product or service in question?” This helps me to see problems from my clients’ perspectives and work to create a solution that’s suited to their needs. 

6. Which machine is your favourite from the UNTHA shredder range, and why?

The XR mobil-e. I love how the machine is fully self-contained, with tracks which enable it to be used in all suitable locations of the client’s facility. 

7. UNTHA has a number of divisions scattered all over the globe – Austria, Poland, Iberica, and Türkiye, to name a few. If you weren’t a trusty fixture at the UK branch, which business would be next on your work hit list?

Austria. I have previously travelled there for a car show (Wörthersee) and was impressed by the natural beauty and way of life. A close second would be Türkiye, as unfortunately my hairline is starting to recede. 

8. What do you think makes UNTHA’s service such a hit with our customers?

High-quality products with great customer service, allowing for clients’ expectations to be managed and long lead times reduced. Plus, UNTHA continually innovates its shredders, incorporating the latest developments into all new revisions so they always operate at peak performance.

9. What’s your main hope for UNTHA UK over the next year or so?

To continue to supply high-quality shredding solutions to new and existing clients.

10. And finally, what’s your main environmental hope for the UK as a whole?

To reduce the UK’s carbon footprint, while working with other nations to cut carbon emissions across the globe.

Our people are important to us at UNTHA UK — after all, without their knowledge and expertise we would be unable to deliver the five-star customer service that we’re so famous for.

So, each month we quiz a different colleague on 10 quickfire questions that offer a little more insight into why they play such an important and valued part of our growing team.

Next up, its sales director, Gary Moore… Over to you, Gary.  

1. How did you first get into the world of shredding?

Following the completion of my engineering apprenticeship, I started my career in the construction industry, where I delved into mechanical heavy-plant fitting at the Bovis Group. Progressing through various management roles, I culminated my tenure in construction with Alimak Group AB, a renowned manufacturer of powered access systems and hoists. This role saw me manage the hoisting facilities during the construction of Canary Wharf.

As the industry faced recession, I transitioned into a new chapter, embracing the realms of recycling, recovery, sustainability, and the intriguing domain of shredding.

2. What’s the one skill or quality that helps you succeed in the UNTHA environment?

In the UNTHA environment, adaptability and a willingness to learn are crucial for success. Each day is varied and requires flexibility to handle different tasks and situations, so adjusting to changing priorities and situations is essential.  

3. Name one highlight from your UNTHA tenure so far.

In a decade-long career with UNTHA, it’s so difficult to name just one highlight. So, in no particular order, my top three are:

• The support and love from my wonderful family, which has allowed to grow in my career.

• Working with a fantastic team of supportive, experienced and professional colleagues.

• And finally, 10 years, phew — I did it!

4. How do you unwind at the end of a busy day at work?

Ideally, I would love to say meditating, exercising, stretching, or taking a short walk, which are all great options to transition. However, the reality is, switch off technology, switch on the TV and watch The Walking Dead or The Expanse, read a book — currently Perdido Street Station by China Mieville — then sleep.

5. What’s the best piece of work-related advice you’ve ever received?

Developing a strong work ethic is crucial. Mistakes should not discourage you, instead, learn from them. Remember, “the only person who never makes mistakes is the person who never does anything”. Embrace mistakes as opportunities for growth and progress.

6. Which machine is your favourite from the UNTHA shredder range, and why?

It must be the XR series. Specifically, the XR3000C mobil-e which is a revolutionary machine concept in mobile waste shredding. It capitalises on many benefits of an electromechanical drive without having to forego the advantages of a mobile machine. For customers, this means high efficiency, high profitability and enormous flexibility.

7. UNTHA has several divisions scattered all over the globe — Austria, Poland, Iberica, and Türkiye, to name a few. If you weren’t a trusty fixture at the UK branch, which business would be next on your work hit list?

My role as sales director of UNTHA UK also incorporates director for global business development, which means I also look after Australasia and offer guidance and assistance to my colleagues at most other divisions. Türkiye does sound inviting though…

8. What do you think makes UNTHA’s service such a hit with our customers?

For sales professionals, it’s crucial to do more than just answer customers’ questions. While some customers may know precisely what they need, we aim to ensure they have a thorough understanding of their true requirements. Our approach focuses on developing a consultative sales process to uncover insights without being intrusive. We prioritise offering advice, even on topics unrelated to shredding, if we believe it can be beneficial. Our commitment lies in providing solutions that truly align with our customers’ needs and objectives.

9. What’s your main hope for UNTHA UK over the next year or so?

In the coming year, our focus is on achieving sustainable growth, strengthening customer relationships, and fostering a positive work environment. We aim to explore new opportunities for innovation and expansion, staying adaptable and responsive to market changes and customer needs to ensure continued success.

10. And finally, what’s your main environmental hope for the UK as a whole?

A statement from our former Prime Minister, Theresa May, really sums up my thoughts and feelings. 

“Our natural environment is our most precious inheritance. The United Kingdom is blessed with a wonderful variety of natural landscapes and habitats and our 25 Year Environment Plan sets out our comprehensive and long-term approach to protecting and enhancing them in England for the next generation.”

Often overlooked as an unavoidable nuisance, airborne dust can have catastrophic consequences in the waste sector. Gary Moore, sales director at industrial shredding specialist UNTHA UK, explored how slow-speed mechanical shredding can confidently tackle the challenge at source, in the April issue of Skip and Waste. 

If you missed the original article, you can catch up below. 

 

The hidden dangers of dust in waste facilities

When we think of ‘tricky’ waste products, we often picture bulky items – automotive parts, pulper ropes, large domestic appliances. In reality, one of the most complex byproducts of waste processing is something more conspicuous: dust, generated during the sorting, shredding, crushing, and transportation of different materials.

Despite their size, these fine particulates often carry toxic chemicals and hazardous substances which, when released into the air, can enter the human body via inhalation, absorption, and ingestion. Unlike the larger elements our bodies can clear through coughing or sneezing, dust can infiltrate deep into the lungs, leading to serious, long-term health issues – from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) to asthma, heart disease, and even cancer. Beyond such health risks, dust is also highly flammable, creating clouds that can ignite in an instant – catastrophic in industrial facilities where sparks from equipment are not uncommon.

So, while dust might seem like a minor inconvenience, in reality, it’s anything but. And it’s the responsibility of the duty holder to prevent even the smallest hazards from escalating.

 

Staying on the right side of compliance

Acknowledging significant dangers, the UK’s Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has strict limits on airborne contaminants in the workplace, and under the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations, employers must protect workers against the risk of all hazardous dust. However, given its increased potential for serious respiratory conditions – and worse – wood dust is under increasing scrutiny. As part of strict COSHH guidelines, the HSE has set a workplace exposure limit (WEL) for wood dust: 5 mg/m³ for softwood and 3 mg/m³ for hardwood, averaged over an eight-hour period.

From heavy fines to operational shutdowns, failure to comply with these standards can bring serious consequences for waste operators. But there are steps that can mitigate these risks. Based on existing guidelines, this includes using effective dust extraction systems, avoiding practices like sweeping or using compressed air lines that can disturb hazardous particles, and ensuring industrial vacuum cleaners meet at least Class M standards. Employers should also enforce personal protective equipment (PPE) where necessary, and conduct regular health surveillance to address emerging concerns early on.

But the key to truly tackling this tricky byproduct is reducing the problem at source. And this is where slow-speed shredding technology proves invaluable.

 

The power of slow-speed shredding

Driven by high-torque technology, slow-speed shredders operate at reduced speeds without sacrificing throughput, confidently processing the bulkiest of materials in a single step. This promises lower wear and higher uptime, while reducing energy consumption, minimising dust fines, delivering a cleaner output, and significantly lessening health and safety risks. With advanced fire suppression technology, these mighty machines also prevent sparks from igniting, while a range of additional safety features can be integrated to satisfy a broader range of HSE criteria – including quick-change cutter systems, auto-stop foreign object protection, and sub-80dB(A) operation.

When integrated with state-of-the-art downstream equipment – including conveyors, density separators, cyclones, rotary valves, air exhausts, and water injection technology – the application of a slow-speed shredder can be elevated even further. These capture and contain dust during processing, strategically eliminating the problem at source and ensuring health and safety are built into the heart of the waste management process, rather than added as an afterthought.

Tom White, commercial waste solutions specialist based in Coventry, has partnered with UNTHA UK to enhance the capabilities of its material handling on-site. With strategic investment into the XR3000C shredder, the firm can unlock greater throughputs, reduce costs, and make steps towards producing its own alternative fuel source.

Approximately 180 tonnes of commercial, industrial, and demolition (C&I and C&D) waste — sourced from the local area — pass through Tom White’s facility each day. After being shredded down to a 300mm particle size, the material is sorted by size and density, before extracting and segregating heavy fractions and valuable commodities to be redistributed into the supply chain.

Previously, the remaining residual fractions were transported to another waste management company. Now, with the UNTHA XR3000C, the material can be further refined on-site and transformed into a homogeneous feedstock, less than 50 mm in particle size, for solid recovered fuel (SRF).

Achieving throughputs of 60 tonnes per day – with capabilities of up to 80 on a single shift, the shredder also enables Tom White to target processed material from other waste management specialists. Bypassing the materials recovery facility (MRF), the material is mixed with the light residual fractions generated by the plant itself, enabling it to ultimately produce a greater volume of fossil fuel substitutes.

Overall, the circularity of Tom White Waste’s operations has been enhanced. Up to 75% more energy efficient than diesel-hydraulic shredders, the electric-drive XR3000C has improved the carbon footprint of the facility, while laying the groundwork for future-proofed on-site SRF production.

Michael Trueman, head of production at Tom White Waste, explains why UNTHA UK was the partner of choice: “As well as something mobile, we wanted a tried-and-tested shredder that could withstand the high volumes of waste passing through our facility. Having seen the UNTHA XR in action on other sites, we knew it promised the resilience for tough operating conditions and a consistent SRF output. The question was whether it could keep pace with the tonnage we wanted to put through it — a challenge that, so far, it is living up to.

“From a cost perspective, the UNTHA Finance package was an attractive benefit for us too — and not just because we can budget accurately. We have wrapped a five-year service plan into our investment — including three site visits per annum, complete with full machine inspection and service, plus oil and filter change — for ultimate peace of mind.”

Up to 75% more energy efficient than diesel-hydraulic shredders, the electric-drive XR3000C has improved the carbon footprint of the facility, while laying the groundwork for future-proofed on-site SRF production.

It began as a single enquiry for an UNTHA RS30 four-shaft shredder, when The Royal Mint had a bold idea to change the face of e-waste processing in the UK. But several months later, thanks to the company’s innovative foresight –in collaboration with UNTHA and other engineering partners – this vision evolved into a complex, industry-first installation that has stopped the global WEEE recycling industry in its tracks.

Here, we explore how this groundbreaking operation, featuring three UNTHA shredders, unlocks the untapped potential of e-waste to drive sustainable precious metal liberation and economic growth.

Building British heritage for more than a millennium

As the official maker of UK coins, The Royal Mint’s legacy spans more than 1,100 years, making it the oldest company in the UK. Throughout this rich history, it has been synonymous with precision, engineering excellence, and an unwavering commitment to quality – from producing the nation’s coinage and commemorative medals to offering investment opportunities in gold and silver.

But as the world changes, so too do this historic institution’s ambitions. With cash usage declining and fewer people required for traditional coin production, The Royal Mint recognised the need to diversify its operations. At the same time, the UK has become the second-largest producer of e-waste per capita, trailing only Norway with its poor WEEE disposal habits. Addressing this mounting global challenge offered a timely opportunity to reduce overseas shipping of discarded electronics and retain the value of precious metals within the UK.

In doing so, the company has the capacity to process over 4,000 tonnes of printed circuit boards from e-waste annually and generate up to 450kg of gold each year – worth approximately £27 million at current prices (as of January 2024). Ultimately, it’s a testament to the historic institution’s ambition, showcasing how even the most traditional companies can evolve to drive groundbreaking solutions for sustainability and profitability.

The untapped potential ‘locked’ inside e-waste

Discarded electronics are piling up at an alarming rate globally, presenting a major challenge for waste management – not to mention the environment. And figures are expected to grow even further, with the United Nations predicting a 32% increase over the next few years, reaching 82 million tonnes per annum, by 2030.  But within every piece of ‘redundant’ equipment – from mobile phones and computers to large kitchen appliances – lies a wealth of valuable materials to be liberated.

And not just base metals such as copper and aluminium. Constituent parts also include precious metals like gold, silver, and palladium. In fact, gold is found in much higher concentrations in e-waste than in raw ore. However, due to inefficient recycling processes, this risks these remaining ‘locked’ inside. But The Royal Mint’s groundbreaking facility sets a new precedent for WEEE recycling. By extracting and reusing precious metals found in printed circuit boards, the company is helping to close the loop on precious metal recovery and pave the way for a more circular economy.

An industry-first processing line

The beating heart of this multi-million-pound, 35-acre South Wales facility is an intricate, high-tech processing line that integrates the latest advancements in technology, including three UNTHA RS30 four-shaft shredders. With their precise, low-speed, high-torque design, the machines provide a controlled and efficient way to process e-waste – breaking down large, complex circuit boards into finely tuned granulate particles – while ensuring low emissions and minimal energy consumption. The shredded material is then ready for further downstream treatment, where a complex system of ancillary technologies further separates and refines different metallurgical content for maximum recovery.

Non-metal components are repurposed into building materials, while base metals are extracted and sold to refiners. But the treatment of precious metals is what truly sets this facility apart on the global stage. Leveraging ‘world-first’ patented chemistry from The Royal Mint’s Canadian clean-tech partner, Excir, gold fractions are selectively extracted, leaching out more than 99% of the gold ‘locked’ inside the input material. This gold is then recovered as a powder, which is later heated in a furnace to create gleaming nuggets, ready to be reintroduced into the supply chain to make new products. This is being used to craft jewellery for The Royal Mint’s luxury jewellery line, 886 by The Royal Mint.

This process contrasts sharply with traditional gold recovery methods, which are highly energy-intensive and rely on toxic chemicals or high-energy smelting that burns the materials. The Royal Mint’s approach instead uses a recyclable chemical solution at low energy, operating at room temperature to quickly and efficiently draw gold from the waste.

Driving circular manufacturing processes

The Royal Mint effectively transforms e-waste into a valuable resource, taking precious materials that would otherwise be buried in landfills and turning them into commodities that benefit industries beyond its own. By closing the loop on e-waste, this global leader reduces its carbon footprint, lessens reliance on mined materials, and pioneers a more sustainable approach to precious metal use – evidencing what’s possible with a bold, circular vision.

Of course, The Royal Mint’s sustainability strategy goes the full extent too. In addition to employing groundbreaking technologies at its facility, the company has an all-encompassing energy commitment that follows suit. Up to 70% of electricity generated on site comes from renewable sources – including solar, wind, and heat power.

A bold new era of innovation

As electronic waste mounts at an unprecedented rate, The Royal Mint has set out to completely transform the e-waste landscape, not only rethinking how we handle WEEE disposal, but leading the way with an industry-first facility that is challenging what’s possible in sustainable precious metal production. The company remains committed to reclaiming value from what was once discarded, reducing dependence on mined materials, and closing the loop on a circular economy.

In embracing this vision, The Royal Mint has proven that true innovation doesn’t always come from the newest player – sometimes, it comes from those bold enough to redefine their legacy and reshape industries for the better.

Watch The Royal Mint’s process in action, in its official behind-the-scenes video.

Earlier this month, UNTHA UK held our inaugural Big Autumn ShredFest – a stock shredder showcase at our North Yorkshire headquarters, offering customers a glimpse into the revenue-generating potential of our world-class machinery. Taking place over the course of three fruitful days, our factory floor was transformed into a bustling showroom, with a wide range of our industry-leading machinery ready to be seen in action firsthand. 

We’d like to take this opportunity to extend a huge thanks to all the visitors who made the trip to Boroughbridge and took advantage of the exclusive deals available at the event, plus to the team of suppliers and staff who made it all a success. Over the course of the three days, it was fantastic to connect with so many customers, both new and existing, to discuss how our shredding technology can truly transform their business. And, although it’s early days, we’re already excited for the next one. 

Here’s a quick recap, in case you missed it…

Mighty machines shown in action 

Our showroom display of machines ranged from the versatile RS40 and the compact PS1300 shredders to the high-throughput LRK 1400 model. But that’s not all. Located outside, we also brought the renowned XR3000C front and centre, which generated some great conversations regarding the bottom-line-boosting benefits of our shredders and how electric-driven technology can significantly slash energy costs on site. Meanwhile, guests were also impressed by the increased durability, safety, and efficiency of our low-speed, high-torque solutions.

All of this was possible thanks to Briggs Equipment, which supplied the 14-tonne forklift to prepare for the day, and to J. Exley Ltd,  for delivering our stock machines to the site. 

Imparting expert knowledge

As well as getting up close to our best-in-class shredding technology and watching live virtual demonstrations of the machines in action, customers had the chance to speak directly with our experts. The whole team was on hand to provide advice on every element, from purchasing to operations, including engineers discussing shredding needs, finance experts advising on procurement options, and aftersales specialists informing visitors about the customer support available long after any sale has been completed. 

Exclusive event-only deals

ShredFest wasn’t only about seeing the machinery up close. Many attendees also walked away with significant savings. Throughout the showcase, we offered a series of event-only deals across selected new, used, and refurbished shredders, plus exclusive discounts on spare parts packages and service plans. These offers were designed to help customers accelerate ROI, reduce whole-life operating costs, and make the leap into higher-performance technology more accessible. Dozens of businesses took advantage of these limited-time incentives, with plenty more on the horizon for next time.

Food, networking, and freebies

Our catering company, Foodelectable, kept attendees fed and watered while they networked with industry peers, enjoyed virtual demos, unlocked technical insights, and explored shredder know-how from our experts. And we didn’t let guests leave empty handed either. Everyone also took home a goody bag which included UNTHA merchandise and courtesy of JJ’s Bakes, some treats for the road.

What’s next for ShredFest?

The shredder showroom was so well received that it will now remain a permanent fixture in Boroughbridge – and we plan to hold more events like this in the future. So, there will be ample opportunity to take advantage of our exclusive offers and discover more about the industry’s best-loved shredding solutions, how to turn waste into revenue, enhance operational efficiency, and improve material recovery rates in 2026. Sign up to our newsletter to get notified about the next one.

If you can’t wait until then, we always hold a range of new, used, and refurbished industrial shredders in stock at our North Yorkshire HQ. Whether you want to have a glance at our available machines before buying or have an urgent shredding requirement that demands support sooner, we have the resources to help.

We’ve always prided ourselves on creating a supportive and inclusive environment for our team. But while there’s growing recognition of the importance of mental health in the workplace, discussing it openly can still feel like stepping into uncharted territory.

That’s why we’re proud to share that our aftersales lead Julie Cassidy has recently become a certified Mental Health First Aider.

In England, one in four adults and one in ten children experience mental health difficulties each year. And yet, in many workplaces, mental health can feel somewhat of a taboo subject.  

But safeguarding our colleagues’ wellbeing is just as vital as providing robust health and safety procedures. Mental health first aid, like physical first aid, is about recognising the signs that someone may be struggling and offering the support they need before challenges escalate.

Julie’s rigorous training course covered three key areas:

1. Understanding mental health – to build awareness and break down the stigma.

2. Supporting individuals with mental ill health – focusing on practical strategies to help.

3. Promoting a mentally healthy environment – creating a culture where everyone feels safe to speak up.

Through this qualification, Julie learned how to spot the warning signs of mental health difficulties and provide comfort and reassurance to colleagues in need. She’s also equipped to signpost individuals to professional help when necessary.

Of course, this isn’t just about one person taking on the mantle of mental health advocate — it’s about cultivating a workplace where every team member feels supported. With Julie leading the way, we’re opening up conversations about mental wellbeing and ensuring everyone knows there’s a safe space to share concerns.

At UNTHA UK, we believe that a mentally healthy workplace isn’t a nice-to-have — it’s essential. We can support each other through the challenges of life, and create an environment where everyone is able to thrive.

Our people are important to us at UNTHA UK — after all, without their knowledge and expertise we would be unable to deliver the five-star customer service that we’re so famous for.

So, each month we quiz a different colleague on 10 quickfire questions that offer a little more insight into why they play such an important and valued part of our growing team.

Next up, it’s sales and marketing administrator, Hannah Wray. Over to you, Hannah!

1. How did you first get into the world of shredding?
   Completely by chance! I was working as a bookings administrator for a domestic and commercial cleaning company and wanted a change. I saw that UNTHA UK was looking for a sales and marketing administrator and decided to take a leap!

2. What’s the one skill or quality that helps you succeed in the UNTHA environment? 
   Adaptability. My role is pretty varied, so it’s important to be agile and flexible each day.
    

3. Name one highlight from your UNTHA tenure so far.
   In November, I joined UNTHA colleagues, and our client PSH Environmental, at the MRW National Recycling Awards, where our collaboration had been shortlisted in three categories. Despite some very stiff competition, our two companies took home the Recycling Facility of the Year award, and it was great to celebrate the achievement together on the night.
    

4. How do you unwind at the end of a busy day at work?
   Going to the gym, and spending time with my friends and family.
    

5. What’s the best piece of work-related advice you’ve ever received?
   Focus on learning and growth, not perfection.
   When you’re early in your career, it’s easy to feel pressure to get everything right the first time. But the truth is, mistakes and challenges are part of the learning process. This advice helped me understand that progress comes from taking initiative, asking questions, and being open to feedback.

6. Which machine is your favourite from the UNTHA shredder range, and why?
   It has to be the PS1300 – it’s everything you need to efficiently shred pallets, all wrapped up into one compact system.
    

7. UNTHA has a number of divisions scattered all over the globe — Austria, Poland, Iberica, and Türkiye, to name a few. If you weren’t a trusty fixture at the UK branch, which business would be next on your work hit list?
   I like somewhere with a warmer climate, so maybe Iberica or Türkiye…

8. What do you think makes UNTHA’s service such a hit with our customers?
   Our commitment to providing comprehensive support at every stage of shredder ownership – from the initial sale and installation to aftersales care and engineering expertise. We support our customers every step of the way – ensuring they get the most out of their investment.

9. What’s your main hope for UNTHA UK over the next year or so?
   To continue growing, both as a company and a team.

10. And finally, what’s your main environmental hope for the UK as a whole?
    That more companies take a more hands-on approach to ‘waste’, with the support of UNTHA UK