Southgate Recycling was started by Keith Walters under his existing Environmental landscaping and consulting business E-scape Environmental Services in January 2010. After realizing that he could not successfully manage two businesses, Keith asked his longtime friend and fellow Springbok Scout Gavin Paulsen to join him in his new business venture.
Gavin left Subaru Durban where he was employed as workshop manager in May 2010 and joined Keith. Neither Keith nor Gavin had any plastic processing experience, but were enthusiastic to learn new skills.
Second hand processing machinery was sourced and commissioned, and Keith’s existing landscaping staff was offered the opportunity to join the new business. Four permanent staff members were appointed and moved across to begin learning the business alongside Keith and Gavin.