About Us

Cohen is People Powered Recycling. As one of the largest ferrous and non-ferrous scrap metal recyclers in the nation, we are empowered by our employees, customers, vendors and partners. Together, we can co-create a bluer world!

WHAT WE DO

Headquartered in Middletown, Ohio, Cohen Recycling helps businesses and individuals alike recycle metal and electronics safely, responsibly, and conveniently. Our mission is to provide the communities we serve a cleaner and more sustainable environment through innovation, outreach, and an unwavering commitment to our people.

IT RUNS IN THE FAMILY

In this video, see how four generations of family ownership have led Cohen Recycling to stand at the forefront of recycling innovation.

1924 - WHEN IT ALL STARTED

Cohen Bros. Inc. started in 1924 by brothers Phil and Mose Cohen, two immigrants just looking to make a living with what they could carry in a horse-drawn cart.

1970 - SHREDDER PURCHASE

In 1970, Cohen invested in the installation of an automobile shredder at its West Carrollton, Ohio facility, significantly expanding the company's capacity to process scrap.

2006 - EXPANDED FOOTPRINT

Cohen's Norwood, Ohio facility, known then as King Recycling, was the first satellite yard in the Cohen network - and certainly not the last.

2010 - BRAND UPDATE

The move from Cohen Bros. to Cohen Recycling, complete with a new logo, signaled the evolution of the business beyond the traditional "junk guy" model.

2017 - A NEW FRONTIER

Cohen's electronics recycling division, created in 2009, became a fully realized subsidiary specializing in IT asset disposition (ITAD) services for businesses.

TODAY - INDUSTRY LEADERS

Cohen moved into a new headquarters building in Middletown, Ohio in 2018 to accommodate its growth. We now employ over 300 people at more than 20 sites.

1924 - WHEN IT ALL STARTED

Cohen Bros. Inc. was founded in 1924 by brothers Phil and Mose Cohen, two immigrants just looking to make a living with what they could carry in a horse-drawn cart.

1970 - SHREDDER PURCHASE

In 1970, Cohen invested in the installation of an automobile shredder at its West Carrollton, Ohio facility, significantly expanding the company's capacity to process scrap.

2006 - EXPANDED FOOTPRINT

Cohen's Norwood, Ohio facility, known then as King Recycling, was the first satellite yard in the Cohen network - and certainly not the last.

2010 - BRAND UPDATE

The move from Cohen Bros. to Cohen Recycling, complete with a new logo, signaled the evolution of the business beyond the traditional "junk guy" model.

2017 - A NEW FRONTIER

Cohen's electronics recycling division, created in 2009, became a fully realized subsidiary specializing in IT asset disposition (ITAD) services for businesses.

TODAY - INDUSTRY LEADERS

Cohen moved into a new headquarters building in Middletown, Ohio in 2018 to accommodate its growth. Cohen now employs over 300 people at more than 20 sites.

VALUES

Through four generations of leadership, our family and company have remained committed to the same values we were founded on:

  • Community
  • Quality
  • Service
  • Safety
  • Integrity
  • Innovation

ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS, AND RESPONSIBILITY IS BUILT INTO OUR EVERYDAY OPERATIONS.

Our people make the difference and we are focused on creating an environment where everyone is treated with respect. Our employees share a passion to make each of the communities we serve a better place. We live this through philanthropic support for worthy causes and organizations like the Ronald McDonald House of Cincinnati, through our pop-tab collection program; Great Parks Forever, the charitable arm of Great Parks of Hamilton County; Green Umbrella, a conglomeration of local ecological groups and efforts; United Way, and many other national and local causes that are important to our employees.

Cohen operates several locations in the Midwest, but our capabilities and reach extend across the continent and around the world.

Sustainability

Cohen was green when the world was black & white. Recycling helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions and conserves energy and natural resources used in manufacturing. Our approach to sustainability mitigates risk and creates value for our customers and the communities we serve. We also proudly support several local and national sustainability organizations and efforts.