FV Recycling has acquired Mid America Paper Recycling, expanding into the Midwest and combining logistics, brokerage and processing capabilities under Jones Capital. | Courtesy FV Recycling

FV Recycling, a commercial and industrial recycler based in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, has acquired Mid America Paper Recycling of Chicago, strengthening its material brokerage and logistics network. 

The combined company will expand its presence into the Midwest and is expected to handle more than 900,000 tons of recyclables each year and employ about 180 people across the United States.

The acquisition, announced Oct. 14, significantly increases FV Recycling’s national reach while adding Mid America’s established processing and brokerage operations. The companies did not disclose financial terms and Mid America will continue operating under its current name as integration planning moves forward.

Founded in 1926 in Chicago, Mid America Paper Recycling brokers and processes paper, plastics, metals, glass and pallets for clients nationwide. The acquisition adds Mid America’s established supplier network and regional footprint to FV Recycling’s logistics and hauling business.

Hattiesburg-based FV Recycling, established in 2000 and owned by Jones Capital, serves commercial and industrial clients across the Southeast. The company handles bale-route hauling, brokerage, and baler and compactor services and oversees recovery programs for plastics, aluminum and pallets. 

“This acquisition represents a transformative step forward for FV Recycling as we expand our ability to serve customers with comprehensive recycling solutions,” said Gene Smith, president of FV Recycling. “Mid America’s deep-rooted supplier relationships and decades of industry experience perfectly complement our transportation and equipment capabilities. Together, we will provide unmatched service and value to our combined customer base while maintaining the personal attention and integrity both companies are known for.”

Don Gaines, CEO of Mid America Paper Recycling, said he will remain active with the company. “This is more than a transaction, it is a partnership built on shared values,” he said. “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. That continues, but now with greater reach, more capabilities and deeper resources.”

Jonathan Jones, CEO of Jones Capital, said the partnership reflects the company’s commitment to long-term, sustainable growth. “This partnership honors the legacy that Don and his family built while enabling new opportunities for growth and impact,” he said. “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.”

The companies said customers will gain expanded service options that include improved access to national markets for recyclable commodities. The combined network will support full-van and bale-route transportation across an enlarged geographic area, along with continued equipment leasing, sales and repair programs. 

Both FV Recycling and Mid America Paper Recycling said they plan a careful transition process designed to preserve service continuity for employees, customers and suppliers.

More stories about markets