Centerprise launch challenges recycling 'cheats'

System builder unveils Ci Recycle to ensure customers get value for money and to help businesses meet green criteria

Centerprise has launched Ci Recycle to tackle the problem of customers failing to get a decent amount of cash for their recycled gadgets.

The recently launched firm claims many customers that use recycling sites to cash in their unwanted phones, tablets and cameras end up feeling ripped off when the prices they get are lower than those they were quoted.

It is also planning to work with companies to help them dispose of their IT products in an environmentally friendly fashion, and fulfil its green pledge into the bargain.

Ci Recycle has pledged to be upfront and transparent about payments to customers, unlike its competitors, which it claims often quibble about minor marks caused by general wear and tear.

The website – www.CiRecycle.co.uk – offers to pay a clear price for that item and will not mark it down unless the condition of the item is significantly different from the way the customer described it.

Customers are then sent a free pack to post their gadget to Ci Recycle, and the money they were promised is quickly paid into their bank account. The gadget they sent in is ethically recycled – whether that’s by being sold in the secondhand market or disposed of responsibly.

Cas Paton, managing director of OnCommerce, which runs Centerprise-backed online marketplace OnBuy, has taken the role of web programme director at Centerprise International to head up the Ci Recycle project.

Paton said: “Centerprise International sees a real potential with recycling; we want to do our bit for the environment by recycling old electronics rather than continually manufacturing new electronics. Ci Recycle will be involved with both trade and consumers, purchasing bulk from retailers and companies, and purchasing individual items from consumers.

“The consumer recycling industry is packed with ambiguity and many recyclers offer high prices but the consumers face major downgrading on price for small wear and tear, and often the consumer feels cheated.

“At Ci Recycle we will be offering an honest and transparent pricing policy to remove all ambiguity. As long as you have been honest with us, we’ll be straightforward with you – the price we give you up front is the price we’ll pay. For the first time in the UK, consumers can sell their electronics to a key industry player, and sell with the confidence that they will be quickly be paid the amount they are expecting.”