Consolidated Waste Services (CWS) has acquired East London’s trusted document destruction company, Confidential Shredders, and has pledged to enhance the vital service that businesses have come to rely on, while creating awareness about recycling.
Confidential Shredders, a mobile shredding service, uses a compact, high-powered imported machine to securely destroy documents on site.
All that is required from clients is a standard power point and enough space to park a four-tonne truck.
The company also offers off-site shredding for clients who may face parking or access challenges.
Founded in 2015 by Malcolm Cock, the business has grown under his mentorship, with two long-serving staff members who will continue under the new ownership.
Cock started Confidential Shredders after realising how easily sensitive information could be accessed from discarded documents — a concern made more urgent by the Protection of Personal Information Act.
“I have two employees who have been with me for years — they even call me ‘dad’. When I decided to sell, I made it clear to the new owners that keeping them was non-negotiable,” said Cock.
“I started this business at 65 to keep my mind active. I wanted to contribute to responsible waste management.
“I realised many businesses were simply dumping or burning confidential papers, which was unsafe and environmentally unsound.
“That’s when I decided to bring shredding services directly to clients.
“I want to thank over 1,000 loyal customers with whom I forged friendships with, and I trust they will continue with the new business owners.
“I have no doubts that the new directors will build on my efforts,” Cock said.
New owner Leona Beard, of Consolidated Waste Services, said she wanted to preserve the legacy and reputation built by Cock.
“We decided to keep the name Confidential Shredders because it represents trust and reliability,” said Beard.
“We spoke on the phone a few times, met shortly after, and within days the deal was done.”
Beard, who describes herself as a passionate recycler, said CWS was committed to promoting environmental awareness while maintaining the integrity of the shredding service.
“Having lived in Johannesburg, recycling was part of our daily routine.
“I want to bring that same awareness to East London — helping businesses dispose of confidential documents responsibly while taking care of the planet.”
