Tomra opens London RVM showroom

The Tomra Collection business unit of Norway-based Tomra Systems ASA says it has opened a reverse vending machine (RVM) showroom in London in advance of a beverage container deposit-return system (DRSs) drawing near in the United Kingdom.

Starting in October 2027, buyers of several types of beverages in England, Scotland and Wales will pay a refundable deposit on beverage bottles and cans, which they’ll get back from retailers when they return the empty containers.

Tomra says it has been manufacturing RVMs for more than 50 years, with the devices designed to automate the process of collecting and sorting beverage containers before they are recycled.

The company says its RVMs are used around the world, with several models now in display for retailers to try in person at a showroom in the Chiswick neighborhood of London.

“As preparations for the U.K.’s DRS gather pace, retailers are exploring solutions that will fit seamlessly in their stores,” says Sondre Henningsgård, Tomra Collection UK managing director.

“Our technology is tried and trusted in over 60 markets around the world,” says Henningsgård. “We have opened this dedicated showroom to give U.K. retailers the opportunity to see the RVMs, try them out, ask questions and learn more about the ways that technology can help make recycling quick, easy and efficient for their customers.”

Models on display at the showroom include the new Tomra R2 multifeed machine, which accepts a whole bag of containers at once, and the compact Tomra B5, designed for retailers with smaller footprints.

“With less than two years until the scheme goes live, retailers of all types can find efficient solutions that will create a great recycling experience for their customers, helping to boost footfall and loyalty,” says Henningsgård.

The firm says representatives from retail companies can arrange visits to the showroom by emailing Tomra Collection UK at tcs.uk@tomra.com.