MKM rolls out UK’s first fully recycled bulk bag

MKM Building Supplies has become the first UK builders’ merchant to launch a bulk bag made entirely from recycled materials — and fully recyclable across all components.

The 100% recycled bags, developed in partnership with Centurion Industrial Packaging, are now rolling out across MKM’s 135 branches nationwide. They exceed the 30% recycled content standard found in most industry bulk bags and are designed to help customers reduce waste and meet new environmental rules.

“This isn’t about ticking boxes — it’s about leading the industry forward,” said Ric Bauer, MKM’s head of building materials. “We’ve gone from 30% recycled content to 100% across all branches. It’s better for customers, better for compliance, and better for the planet.”

The bags are made from recycled polypropylene, including stitching and labelling, and have been independently strength-tested in the UK. While intended for single use, they are strong enough for secondary uses in landscaping and home improvement.

David Lomas, sustainability director at Centurion, added: “MKM challenged us to raise the bar. The result is packaging that performs and supports a circular economy.”

The change is also timed with new legal requirements. From 31 March 2025, UK businesses with more than 10 employees must separate recyclable materials at source — a rule the new bags help meet. The switch also aids site waste management plans (SWMPs), which form part of sustainability reporting on construction projects.

MKM is currently distributing 65,000 bags per month, with annual use expected to reach 800,000. All future stock orders are now 100% recycled, with older 30% recycled bags being phased out.

Bauer added: “Every MKM customer will soon receive the better, greener option by default. We’re proud to be leading on this and would welcome other merchants doing the same.”

MKM holds exclusive rights to the bag design until 1 October 2025.