FV Recycling Expands National Footprint with Acquisition of Mid America Paper Recycling

According to a company announcement released this week, FV Recycling, a Jones Capital portfolio company and one of the leading commercial and industrial recyclers in the United States, has completed the acquisition of Mid America Paper Recycling, a major independent broker, processor, and exporter of recovered materials based in Chicago. The transaction, as reported, marks a significant step in FV Recycling’s ongoing strategy to expand its national footprint and enhance service capabilities across the country.

Founded in 1926, Mid America Paper Recycling brings nearly a century of experience in fiber recovery and materials brokerage to FV’s expanding operations. It is understood that the combined organization will handle more than 900,000 tons of recyclable materials annually, supported by a team of 180 employees across multiple U.S. regions.

FV Recycling President Gene Smith said the acquisition represents a milestone in the company’s growth journey. “Mid America’s deep-rooted supplier relationships and decades of industry experience perfectly complement our transportation and equipment capabilities,” Smith said in a statement. “Together, we’ll provide unmatched service and value to our combined customer base while maintaining the personal attention and integrity both companies are known for.”

According to details provided by FV Recycling, the partnership will allow the company to offer broader recycling services, including access to national markets for paper, plastics, metals, and other recyclables. The integration also expands bale route hauling, van transportation, and equipment leasing, sales, and on-site repair across a wider operating territory. Processing capacity will be supported by facilities located in both the Southeast and Midwest regions of the United States.

Mid America’s CEO Don Gaines, who will continue in his leadership role, emphasized that the partnership is grounded in shared values rather than mere business expansion. “This is more than a transaction, it’s a partnership built on shared values,” Gaines said, according to the company statement. “Both Mid America and FV started as family-owned businesses. We each have strong reputations built on long-term relationships, doing right by our customers, and supporting the communities we serve.”

According to Jonathan Jones, CEO of Jones Capital, the acquisition aligns with the firm’s long-term mission to build sustainable and community-focused enterprises. “Mid America's four-generation legacy mirrors the vision my father, Brett, had when he founded FV in 2000 — building businesses that benefit all stakeholders through integrity, service, and sustainability,” Jones noted. “We’re excited to support the combined team as they expand recycling capabilities across the nation, creating more opportunities to better serve our communities.”

It is reported that Mid America Paper Recycling will continue to operate under its current name during the transition period, ensuring continuity for customers and partners while integration plans are carried out.

Industry analysts suggest that this merger reflects a broader trend of consolidation within the U.S. recycling and waste management sector. As recycling markets evolve under increasing pressure for circular economy solutions and sustainability standards, the combination of FV Recycling and Mid America is expected to create stronger market resilience and greater logistical efficiency. According to industry observers, the deal positions FV to better help U.S. businesses meet both regulatory and environmental targets related to waste reduction and materials recovery.

Source: Mid America Paper Recycling