TOMRA shows the future of reverse vending and deposit return at EuroShop 2026

TOMRA shows the future of reverse vending and deposit return at EuroShop 2026

Retailers worldwide invited to experience the power of reverse vending and prepare for tomorrow’s recycling systems at world’s largest retail trade fair

As several European regions prepare to introduce “deposit return systems” (DRSs) for drink container recycling, at EuroShop reverse vending leader TOMRA is giving stores early insight into DRS and retail involvement. At the world’s largest retail trade fair (22-26 February in Düsseldorf, Germany), r etailers can explore TOMRA’s versatile portfolio of machines and services, designed to help them meet DRS requirements now and in the future . TOMRA will be located in hall 7A at stand B07; learn more at https://collection.tomra.com/euroshop2026 .

Understanding deposit return and retailers’ role

The European Union’s Packaging & Packaging Waste Regulation adds a requirement that members states set up DRSs to achieve targets for 90% of single-use plastic beverage bottles and metal beverage cans to be separately collected for recycling by 2029. DRSs incentivize recycling by adding a small deposit to the price when purchasing a drink, which is refunded when a consumer returns the empty container for recycling. DRSs often legislate that retailers selling beverages also serve as return points, with retailers playing a crucial and highly visible role in the success of a deposit system.

“At EuroShop 2026, we’re highlighting how deposit return can deliver impact. Retailers can get a head-start on DRS by learning more about the role of retailers and upcoming deposit systems,” said Marius Fraurud, Head of TOMRA Collection. “Retailers can try out reverse vending machines (RVMs), which automate container returns, making recycling smarter, more convenient and more engaging for both store employees and customers.”

TOMRA has over 50 years' experience in deposit return, working in 40+ deposit systems globally, in all parts of the value chain. Since 2023 alone, TOMRA has provided RVM infrastructure in new and expanded DRSs including Romania, Hungary, Austria, Greenland, Ireland and Poland in Europe – demonstrating its ability to adapt to diverse infrastructures, regulations, and customer needs.

Automating drink container returns through reverse vending

RVMs automate the return process by instantly identifying, counting and sorting eligible containers, and calculating the correct deposit refund – more efficiently than through manual, human handling. TOMRA offers RVMs for all types of retailers, from the smallest convenience store to hypermarkets with industrial handling. TOMRA machines can process all types of deposit beverage containers, whether plastic, cans or even glass. TOMRA also offers service and digital solutions to enable retailers to offer a seamless and engaging recycling experience for their shoppers.

TOMRA has over 87,000 reverse vending installations, collecting 50+ billion containers annually. The company was founded in 1972 specifically to develop technology to support European stores, after a retailer in Norway asked for help handling the large volume of deposit containers being returned.

“Reverse vending has a proven impact for stores, their customers and our shared journey towards a world without waste,” explains Marius Fraurud. “For stores, higher return rates mean more store visits, stronger loyalty, and smoother operations – with automated handling that frees up staff time and reduces operating costs. Shoppers enjoy a faster, clearer, more seamless recycling experience that reflects positively on the store, attracts more footfall and spending ( 87% of drink container recyclers spend their deposit refund in store). And by participating in DRS, retailers play a direct role in cutting CO₂ emissions, keeping materials in the loop, and staying ahead of regulatory requirements.”

TOMRA B5 reverse vending machine

Reverse vending on show at EuroShop

TOMRA at EuroShop will showcase multiple new and revamped reverse vending products:

New launches: TOMRA will unveil TOMRA T100 as the latest generation in single-feed recycling, and show the newly launched TOMRA Side-By-Side crate unit and TOMRA S2 Rugged Plus outdoor reverse vending machine.
Glass handling: Also debuting is the updated TOMRA R2 , now TOMRA's first “multi-feed” RVM to accept glass bottles. TOMRA also previews a concept for retro-fitting existing systems with gentle handling of reusable glass.
Multi-feed facelift: Another early concept on show is the revamped TOMRA R1, TOMRA’s high-volume and high-speed multi-feed RVM, with a modernized design, wide container in-feed, and new user interface.
Proactive, real-time RVM support: TOMRA will also unveil the new TOMRA BinoQ and TOMRA BinoQ Assist digital solutions , providing data to optimize RVM fleet management, and real-time monitoring of reverse vending activity.

The TOMRA S2 Rugged Plus reverse vending machine

Also on show are TOMRA M1 from the compact TOMRA Mini Line, and TOMRA B5 and TOMRA B7 from TOMRA’s innovative Basic Line specifically designed for new DRS markets. Beyond the walls, retailers can see backroom solutions for efficient container storage , with the modular TOMRA EasyPac , extensive MultiPac and vertical RollPac solutions. The booth will also feature a selection of TOMRA’s digital offerings for a seamless and engaging recycling experience, such as Digital Vouchers for paperless returns, the Digital Payout API to link deposit refunds to retailer loyalty programs, and drop-and-go function for fast, easy payouts that let your customers start their shopping faster. TOMRA’s Customer Corner will also show 3D models through virtual reality, high-volume Air transport, Expert Line for industrial installations, and more.

“TOMRA is bringing the future of deposit return to EuroShop 2026,” said Marius Fraurud. “Retailers can experience the power of reverse vending and discover solutions that prepare them for today’s and tomorrow’s recycling systems — boosting efficiency, enhancing the customer experience, and making a measurable impact on the environment.”

TOMRA will be located in Hall 7A, at booth B07, at EuroShop. Visit TOMRA’s EuroShop site and book a demonstration at https://collection.tomra.com/euroshop2026 . To arrange a media meeting, contact media.collection@tomra.com .

Exhibitor Data Sheet