Our History

Continuing the Tradition

Early in the 20th century, the four Brenner brothers left Latvia for a new start in America.

Joseph brought his brothers Jacob, Morris and Frank into his scrap and iron-peddling business in Hagerstown, Maryland. Each brother went on to make their way in the scrap and metals industry.

Jacob travelled south and settled in Virginia’s Roanoke Valley, where the strong railroad-driven economy would prove fertile territory for his scrap iron business.

Three generations later, a management team that includes two of Jacob’s great-grandchildren, continues his tradition of vision, leadership and integrity — both at Cycle Systems and within the scrap iron and metals industry.

When Jacob settled in the Roanoke Valley in the early 1900s the region was rich in history and natural beauty, much as it is today.  Our recycling efforts have helped sustain this beauty. Today with our green initiatives we are also helping reduce greenhouse gases and our countries dependence on foreign oil.

With each new generation, we’ve changed with the times to better serve the recycling needs of our customers. It’s a tradition our 240 employees look forward to carrying out well into the 21st century.

Recycling Fact

The energy saved from recycling one glass bottle can run a 100-watt light bulb for four hours. It also causes 20% less air pollution and 50% less water pollution than when a new bottle is made from raw materials.