Newtownabbey firm scoops King’s Award for Enterprise

IT asset disposition and lifecycle management (ITAD and ITALM) company Vyta has been recognised for its excellence in sustainability as one of only two Northern Ireland businesses - and one of 29 across the UK - to achieve the prestigious King’s Award for Sustainable Development in 2024.

The company, located at Mallusk View, has championed sustainable practices since it was formed in 2001, maximising the lifespan of IT equipment by collecting, refurbishing, recycling and reselling redundant IT for customers in over 50 countries globally.

The business’ sustainable credentials were evident throughout 2023 as Vyta collected, recycled and processed 450,000 devices for clients, including laptops, PCs, servers, USB sticks, hard drives, smartphones and tablets. By refurbishing these devices for reuse, Vyta prevented the release of nearly 40,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions into the atmosphere.

Branding the accolade “testament to what, for many, is a lifetime’s work,” Philip McMichael, Vyta founder and Chief Executive Officer, said: “Sustainability has been in Vyta’s DNA since the company began operating, with our entire business model based on helping firms manage their IT responsibly and to reduce their environmental impact.

“As one of only two companies in Northern Ireland to have achieved the King’s Award for Sustainable Development in 2024, this accolade recognises both our commitment to minimising our own environmental footprint and that of our customers and partners, as well as our dedication to fostering initiatives within the wider communities in which we operate.

“This is such a well-deserved recognition for the entire team at Vyta and is testament to what, for many, is a lifetime’s work. We will continue to build on the progress made in recent years to reduce our environmental impact and realise a brighter future in a more sustainable world.

“As a world leader in IT Asset Disposition and Lifecycle Management, Vyta works in close collaboration with clients and partners, empowering them with comprehensive carbon impact reporting to measure their carbon impact, to make informed decisions, and align their sustainability efforts with broader ESG objectives.”

Vyta’s focus on sustainability attracted significant investment in 2021 and led to the expansion of Vyta’s operations in the UK, with the acquisition of asset disposition firm, FGD in Essex, in 2022. The company currently has four sites across Britain, Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.

Vyta recognises the Economic Development Team at Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council for its support throughout the application process.

Last year, Vyta participated in a workshop organised by the local authority, during which the company received valuable insights into the award process from both past recipients of the award and the King’s Award Office.

Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Cllr Mark Cooper BEM, described Vyta’s success as a significant milestone for the borough, stating: “Vyta’s commitment to sustainability not only benefits our community, but sets a standard for businesses across Northern Ireland and the UK.

"We congratulate Vyta on receiving the King's Award for Sustainable Development which is also prioritised by Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council. I hope Vyta’s remarkable achievement, along with the council’s commitment to environmental responsibility, encourages more businesses to embrace sustainable working practices and implement change.“