Turnover more than doubled as ESE UK invests in people, innovation, and UK manufacturing
ESE – Europe’s leading manufacturer of temporary storage systems for waste and recyclables – is celebrating a record period of growth in the UK, with turnover increasing from £5 million to over £11 million during managing director Peter Vernon’s tenure.
Based in Coalville, Leicestershire and part of the wider ESE World group, ESE UK has continued to strengthen its position within the waste and recycling sector through well-timed investment in people, manufacturing capabilities, and product innovation.
During the last 12 months alone, approximately £500,000 has been injected in new tooling, machinery, and stockholding to enhance production efficiency, improve product quality and strengthen customer service.
New stamping and printing machinery has increased manufacturing capabilities for the UK wheelie bin market, enabling faster turnaround times and enhanced product quality.
The business has also more than doubled in size over the last six years, driven by a commitment to quality, customer service, and sustainable waste management solutions.
Peter Vernon’s connection with the business spans more than three decades. Having first joined the company as a sales representative when it operated as Otto UK in 1992, he returned in 2020 as managing director to lead the next chapter of growth.
Reflecting on the company’s progress, Peter said: “When I rejoined the business in 2020, turnover stood at approximately £5 million. Today, we are operating at more than £11 million, which is a fantastic achievement and a reflection of the dedication and expertise of our entire team.
“It’s been particularly encouraging to see ESE UK strengthen its position in the UK market, with customers continuing to trust us with major contracts and long-term waste management programmes. We’ve invested in the business because we believe there is a real opportunity to build on our presence here and provide customers with the quality, reliability, and service they need.”
“What makes me particularly proud is that we’ve achieved this growth by staying true to our values. Our customers increasingly recognise that quality and reliability matter. In our industry, buying cheap often means buying twice. We continue to invest in high-quality products manufactured using recycled materials and supported by the service levels our customers expect.”
A key factor behind ESE UK’s success has been the strengthening of its leadership and operational teams. Over recent years, the business has promoted experienced personnel into senior positions – including Paul Ryan as field sales manager, Jetal Sharma as operations manager, and Lynn Smith as finance manager – creating a structure designed to support enhanced customer service and continued expansion and innovation.
“We now have a highly capable and progressive team in place that is focused on taking the business forward,” Peter added. “The quality of people across the organisation gives me real confidence about the future. Everyone works together towards the same goals, and that culture has been fundamental to our success.”
The milestone comes at an important point in ESE’s wider development. In June 2026, Pacific Avenue Capital Partners completed the acquisition of ESE World from Amcor. Pacific Avenue has said it intends to work with ESE’s management team to support the company’s next phase of growth, including operational improvement and geographic expansion.
For ESE UK, the change provides further momentum as the business continues to invest in its people, products, and manufacturing capabilities and build on its established presence in the UK market.
Peter said: “It’s an exciting time for the wider ESE business. The new ownership gives us an opportunity to build on the foundations that are already in place, while continuing to focus on what matters to our UK customers. We’ve got a strong team, a growing customer base and a clear pipeline of opportunities, so we’re looking forward to the next stage.”
As local authorities and waste management providers prepare for the next phase of recycling reforms, ESE UK continues to develop products that support evolving legislation and customer requirements.The company has seen growing demand for food waste collection solutions, including its 7-litre and 23-litre kitchen caddies, which are designed to help councils and households comply with upcoming food waste collection regulations.
ESE UK has also launched further innovations, including an 1,100-litre container with a patented ERGOSTOP and ERGOSTEP, that focuses on improving health and safety for operators and end users. ESE UK’s products contain high levels of recycled polymer, helping customers reduce their environmental impact while maintaining the durability and performance required for long-term use.
The business has also just won two local authority tenders, supplying over 150,000 containers to UK councils.
Peter believes the market is increasingly recognising the value of quality products.
“Councils and waste operators are looking at more than price. They want products that last longer and support their sustainability objectives,” he said. “Our reputation and our commitment to quality put us in a strong position to support those ambitions.
“We’re proud of what we’ve achieved over the last six years, but we’re equally excited about what comes next. With continued investment in our people, products, and manufacturing capabilities, we are well positioned for the next stage of growth.”
For further information visit www.ese.com
