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About Potts Metals

Scrap Metal Recycling in Grimsby and North East Lincolnshire Since 1860

Steeped in history, Potts Metals has proudly served Grimsby and surrounding towns since 1860. Founded by Jonathan Potts as a general merchant and scrap metal trader, the business evolved with the times to support the needs of industry and the community.

From our base in Grimsby, we serve North East Lincolnshire and beyond including Cleethorpes, Scunthorpe, Immingham, Hull, and surrounding areas. Known and respected for scrap metal recycling, our reputation has been built on strong relationships and word of mouth. Today, we continue to play a key role in helping vital UK sectors like energy, marine, and manufacturing offload and recycle scrap metal responsibly.

A Potted History

  • 1860 – Founded by Jonathan Potts
    
Jonathan Potts began trading as a general merchant, supplying everyday materials alongside scrap metal. As a local business near Grimsby and Imminghams’ busy ports, it’s likely he served both industry and shipping, adapting his services to suit the demands of the time.

  • 1935 – “Metallic Grimsby” Advert
    A fascinating historic advert shows the company operating as both scrap metal merchants and dismantling contractors. The inclusion of ropes and tackle aligns the strong connections to the local trawler fleet – a lifeline industry in 1930s Grimsby which continues today.

  • 1959 – Scrap Trade Advert
    Still promoting “top prices,” this ad reflects a scrap trade culture that remains recognisable today. The wording also highlights confidence, scale, and simplicity, all vital in a post-war industrial environment where recovery and reuse were essential.

  • 1967 – Avery Weighbridge Installed
    
This cast-iron weighbridge, now a yard relic, once formed the backbone of our operations. Such mechanical weighbridges were typical of scrap yards across the UK.

  • 2023 – Digital Weighbridge Upgrade

    After more than 50 years, the weighbridge was digitised to improve speed, accuracy, and reporting.

  • 2024 – New Leadership and Trading Name

    The business entered a new phase, with renewed investment and a trading name change to Potts Metals – proudly retaining its founder’s name.

  • 2025 – Rebrand and Website Launch
    A fresh look and a new website marked the company’s next chapter, bringing modern tools to a business built on generations of trust.

Find out the Value of your Scrap Metal

Whether you’re clearing a site or home, decommissioning equipment, or scrapping a vehicle, we’re here to help.
Get in touch to find out how we can help.

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