BATTLE CREEK, Mich. — For more than a century, Franklin Iron and Metal has helped its neighbors recycle unwanted appliances, cars and electronics, turning them into reusable materials.
Founded in 1900 by Myer Franklin in Battle Creek, the company began by recycling rags and textiles.
Over time, Franklin Iron and Metal shifted its focus to metals and paper, and plastics.
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Mother and son team Susan Franklin Behnke (fourth generation) and David Behnke (fifth generation) have since molded the company to a modern recycling machine that has continued to grow and service the region for over 126 years.
Today, the company specializes in industrial scrap recycling, processing ferrous and non-ferrous metals, plastics and electronic waste, as well as household items and commercial products from local businesses.
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What items can I recycle with Franklin Iron and Metal?
Each year, Franklin Iron and Metal recycles 30,000 tons of steel and 15 million pounds of plastic, along with copper, brass and aluminum, according to David Behnke…