LRS acquires waste and recycling businesses in Illinois, Arkansas

LRS, Rosemont, Illinois, has acquired Molenhouse Enterprises in northern Illinois and Bulldog Disposal in central Arkansas, both waste and recycling providers in high-growth LRS markets. Financial terms were not disclosed, and the acquisitions are effective immediately.   

Founded in 1979 and family operated by Jim Molenhouse, Warrenville, Illinois-based Molenhouse Enterprises built its regional brand and reputation on values that align with LRS. From customer service excellence to sustainability and safety, LRS says Molenhouse has been a trusted provider of waste services across greater DuPage and Kane counties in Illinois. The relationship between LRS and Molenhouse began in 2019, with LRS' acquisition and integration of all Molenhouse commercial waste and recycling routes.  

"It means a lot to complete our final chapter with LRS as so many independent, family owned waste and recycling providers have done across the Midwest," Molenhouse says. "We have been honored to serve our loyal customers over four decades, and look forward to seeing the Molenhouse customer service legacy continue at LRS."  

Little Rock, Arkansas-based Bulldog Disposal, a regional waste services provider, expands the LRS South footprint in central Arkansas and complements the company's existing operations in the Arkansas River Valley. The Bulldog Disposal service area includes Little Rock, North Little Rock, Benton, Sheridan, Jacksonville, Conway, Sherwood and Bryant.  

LRS President and CEO Alan T. Handley says both Molenhouse and Bulldog Disposal built local, trusted customer relationships and ran their businesses on the cornerstones of reliability and outstanding customer service.  

"Both Molenhouse and Bulldog densify and expand our services across two critical LRS markets in the nation's midsection, and we look forward to seeing these important tuck-in acquisitions solidify our presence in northern Illinois and central Arkansas," Handley says. "We look forward to consolidating various lines of business in these vibrant markets, optimizing our operations and providing an exceptional customer experience."  

The acquisitions of Molenhouse Enterprises and Bulldog Disposal are LRS' 11th and 12th to date in 2022. In 2021, the company amassed 22 acquisitions to complement its organic revenue growth.  

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Legal and financial advisory services were provided by Much Shelist and Capstone Partners, respectively.