Our Story
A Legacy of excellence
Our story began in 1936 when Peter Black founded a modest scrap business on Notre Dame Street in Montreal East. From the start, Peter instilled a strong work ethic, family values, and a commitment to excellence into the business. His dedication was complemented by the keen interest his sons, Herbert and Ron, had in continuing the family legacy, which laid the foundation for AIM’s remarkable growth. When Peter retired, Herbert and Ron took over the company, successfully blending traditional values with a forward-looking vision for the future.
Under the leadership of President & CEO Herbert Black and Executive Vice-President Ronald Black, AIM has grown from a small local operation into a global leader in metal recycling. Today, with a network of over 135 facilities worldwide, a team of more than 4,000 highly dedicated employees, and even a private fleet of over 2,500 railcars, AIM ensures seamless operations and reliable delivery to meet the needs of our customers. Proudly family-run and supported by a dynamic Executive Leadership Team, AIM remains committed to its metal recycling business while continuously evolving and expanding its portfolio to serve both its customers and their communities better.
Our journey continues, guided by our core values of Passion, Teamwork, Agility, Commitment to Excellence, and Community Engagement. We work toward creating a better and more sustainable future for coming generations.
About us
Milestones across the decades
1936 : The first American Iron & Metal (AIM) facility opened on Moreau Street in Montreal, Quebec, marking the beginning of a legacy in metal recycling.
1963 : AIM built one of the world’s first heated recycling facilities, significantly enhancing employee comfort, productivity, and morale.
1973 : AIM entered the solder business with the launch of AIM Solder, which is now recognized as a leading manufacturer of tin-lead and lead-free solder assembly materials.
1988 : The company relocated its global headquarters to a new 100+ acre location on Henri-Bourassa East in Montreal, significantly expanding its operations.
1994 : Another new chapter with the creation of Delsan AIM, combining AIM’s recycling expertise with advanced decommissioning and demolition services.
2000 : AIM commissioned its first shredder in Montreal, enhancing its competitive edge domestically and broadening its international client base.
2008 : AIM acquired SNF Inc. and Pièces d’Autos Kenny Inc., integrating Quebec’s two largest scrap metal recyclers into the AIM network, further strengthening its industry presence.
2014 : A significant investment in high-tech equipment led to the launch of AIM Éco-Centre, offering innovative turnkey solutions for construction and demolition waste management.
2015 : AIM entered the European market by opening operations in Belgium.
2018 : AIM expanded its U.S. footprint by acquiring Ecology Recycling Services, LLC in California.
2019 : The opening of the AIM Minesource division provided specialized expertise in custom industrial and mining solutions.
2021 : Honeycomb Catalytics was introduced, advancing the recycling of catalytic converters and precious metals recovery. AIM expands operations in the U.S. through its acquisition of Liberty in Phoenix, Arizona.
2023 : Through a joint venture in Kalischatarra, AIM expanded its operations into Mexico and became full owners of Ecology.
2024 : Operations began in Germany, extending AIM’s global reach. AIM introduced the Tuition Scholarship Assistance Program (TSAP) in Canada and the U.S.