Auchan Romania introduces mixed packaging return system

Green Forum
Auchan Romania is expanding its options for collecting beverage containers made of PET, aluminum, and glass marked with the DRS (Deposit Return System) symbol by introducing an innovative system uniquely capable of accepting all three types of packaging in bulk, without requiring prior separation by the consumer. 

The Auchan Militari hypermarket in Bucharest is currently the first store in the Auchan network to feature the new equipment.

The state-of-the-art solution, developed by Tomra, is redefining the standards for collecting DRS containers made of plastic, glass, and metal, streamlining the return process for consumers. It has already been very well received by both Auchan Militari customers and store staff, thanks to the time savings it offers.

The new system follows the same model for collecting packaging bearing the DRS symbol, with the major difference being the ability to insert multiple containers simultaneously. After the packaging is inserted, the customer receives back the deposit of 50 bani for each correctly returned container, in the form of a voucher issued by the machine. The voucher lists the number of containers returned and the total deposit amount.

Auchan, the first retailer to implement a DRS-type system seven months before the official launch of the national program—rewarding customers with 50 bani per container and additional discounts—thus reaffirms its commitment to Romania's largest circular economy initiative and actively contributes to encouraging responsible consumption behavior.

Nationwide, the Auchan Romania network has over 140 recycling points (in-feeds) across all its stores. The cities with the most RVM (Reverse Vending Machine) collection and recycling units are Bucharest, Timișoara, Cluj, and Constanța.

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Green Forum  |  21 July, 2025 at 7:34 PM