TOMRA unveils reverse vending machines for reusable food packaging

Norwegian recycling company, TOMRA, has unveiled its Reuse Collection Point (RCP), a reverse vending machine capable of accepting reusable food packaging.

The novel approach, demonstrated at the Reuse Economy Expo in Paris, represents the development in TOMRA’s Rotake solution for collection, transporting, sanitising, quality-assuring, and redistributing reusable takeaway containers.

The open-managed system accepts any QR-code reusable container programmed for acceptance, from coffee cups to salad bowls.

Upon return, consumers receive instant refunds of deposits direct to their preferred payment option, including major debit and credit cards and some local payment options.

The Reuse Collection Point will be available in the first quarter of 2026.

"European cities come alive in summer — coffee on the go, park picnics, open-air festivals, and more – but this vibrancy also drives litter and waste," said Geir Sæther, SVP and Head of TOMRA Reuse. "We want to make reuse as convenient as single use.”

Integrating reverse vending machines

TOMRA’s Rotake system uses serialised QR codes to track every item throughout the reuse cycle. Cafés, bars and restaurants serve drinks and meals in QR-coded reusable containers, which consumers return to nearby RCPs. Returned containers are cleaned and inspected.

The system provides full traceability and enables reporting on return rates, rotations and environmental impact.

According to a Eunomia study, reusable plastic cups only need to be used six times to outperform the lowest-impact single-use option on environmental metrics.

"What we have learnt from these pilots is that effective circular systems must combine bold environmental targets and supportive regulations with smart infrastructure and consumer incentives to shift behaviour," Sæther said. "Our open-managed approach adapts to any QR-coded packaging, providing cities and event organisers with a simple way to reduce waste and protect resources."

Aarhus pilot shows success for reusable cups

Building on TOMRA’s reuse system for hot and cold drink cups in Aarhus, Denmark, the city-wide pilot has collected more than one million cups at an 85 per cent return rate over 17 months since launching in January 2024.

Consumers in Aarhus pay a DKK 5 (EUR 0.67) deposit for reusable cups, which is redeemable instantly at collection points across the city centre.

TOMRA is also developing Rotake Venue, optimised for large events and stadiums with high throughput requirements and instant collection needs. A working demonstration was displayed at the TOMRA stand at the Reuse Economy Expo.

"Effective reuse systems rely on smart, intuitive technology, as well as strong regulation and consumer incentives," said Stéphan Arino, Vice President of Public Affairs at TOMRA. "Our innovations provide the backbone cities and producers need to comply with EPR obligations and deliver circular systems that transform the way we use and reuse the planet's resources."