Tomra unveils automated collection point for reusable takeaway food packaging

Building on what it calls the first “open-managed” reuse system for hot and cold drink cups in Aarhus, Tomra Reuse recently unveiled a reuse collection point (RCP) at the Reuse Economy Expo in Paris.

Tomra says the RCP, a reverse vending machine, is capable of handling food packaging for the first time and is a fully integrated platform for collecting, transporting, sanitizing, quality-assuring and redistributing reusable takeaway containers.

According to Tomra Reuse, which is part of the Norway-based Tomra Group, the Rotake system relies on serialized QR codes to track every item’s journey:

• Distribution: Cafes, bars and restaurants serve drinks and meals in QR-coded reusable containers.
• Collection: Consumers return used items to conveniently located RCPs.
• Sanitization and quality check: Returned containers are automatically cleaned and inspected.
• Redistribution: Approved containers are redeployed to participating outlets through distribution partners as a recurring subscription on on-demand via an online portal.

Tomra says its latest innovation marks a significant step forward for enabling a truly circular economy. Additionally, by comparing the number of rotations against single-use alternatives, the company says its system delivers hard data on carbon and waste savings.

“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,” says Geir Sæther, senior vice president and head of Tomra Reuse. “We want to make reuse as convenient as single use, which is why our new reuse collection point builds on over 50 years of our expertise in deposit return systems, to help cities tackle their growing amounts of waste.”

Aarhus cup pilot results

Since the launch of Tomra’s citywide cup pilot in January 2024, Aarhus consumers have paid a deposit of 5 Danish Krones (76 cents U.S.) for reusable cups that are instantly redeemable at collection points across the city center.

To date, Tomra says more than 1 million cups have been returned, yielding an 85 percent redemption rate and reductions in single-use waste.

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

In addition to city pilots, Tomra says it is fast-tracking Rotake Venue, optimized for large events and stadiums with high throughput and instant collection needs.

On display at the Reuse Economy Expo

During the Paris event, Tomra also introduced its T70 Dual BottleGlide, a customized solution developed to support the Citeo ReUse project, a national reuse system for food packaging in large and medium-sized supermarkets in France.

Based on the Tomra T70 Dual platform, the company says it has been specifically adapted for the return of reusable glass bottles. The zigzag bottle return system is designed to slow and align bottles to prevent damage, allowing them to be sanitized and reused by producers instead of being downcycled or discarded.

“Effective reuse systems rely on smart, intuitive technology, as well as strong regulation and consumer incentives," says 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.”

Paul Fabiano, managing director of Tomra Collection France, says that as France and the European Union continue to push for circularity through regulations like the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), Tomra Collection France is proud to offer readymade solutions.

“Our participation in the Reuse Economy Expo is an important opportunity to connect with partners, cities and businesses ready to create a world without waste,” Fabiano says.