Pour out your container recycling and walk away: TOMRA R1 previews Express returns

Multi-feed reverse vending and digital payout gives shoppers first fully-automated recycling experience

Hard on the heels of the launch of the new TOMRA R1 “multi-feed” reverse vending solution, global reverse vending leader TOMRA is taking recycling automation up a notch with the unveiling of the Express returns concept. TOMRA R1 enables people to pour over 100 empty drink containers into the machine in one go, and now Express lets recyclers leave the TOMRA R1 while the machine is still processing the containers. The recycling refund will be received electronically once the processing is complete.
image of a man using a TOMRA R1 reverse vending machine

With no need for recyclers to manually handle each container or wait at the machine to receive a voucher, TOMRA R1 with Express is the first completely automated container recycling experience, offering an even more convenient and user-friendly experience. “TOMRA R1 with Express returns is like the self-driving car of container recycling. Hands-free, mess-free and wait-free, this fundamentally transforms the way people recycle,” said Harald Henriksen, Head of TOMRA Collection Solutions.

image of display on a reverse vending machine

TOMRA R1 is available to order in Norway and Sweden, and will roll out to Germany and other markets in the months ahead. Retailers are invited to test the Express concept. TOMRA R1 and Express will be on show at EuroShop, the world’s largest retail trade fair, on 16-20 February in Dusseldorf.

How does it work?

At TOMRA R1, recyclers simply open the hatch and pour their empty cans and plastic bottles into the machine, and close the lid to begin the counting and sorting process. They then receive the voucher with their deposit refund.

For TOMRA R1s equipped with Express, recyclers begin their session by scanning a QR code on the machine’s display screen. After pouring in their containers and closing the lid, consumers can simply walk away and start their shopping. They then receive their deposit back via an electronic voucher.

Express powered by TOMRA Digital

Express is available via TOMRA’s Consumer Engagement API, which can be provided for integration with retailers’ existing apps and loyalty programs. For retailers that do not have their own apps, it can also be included in the myTOMRA app, part of the TOMRA portfolio of digital products for extending the value of using and owning a reverse vending machine.

image of my TOMRA app

Recyclers’ deposit refunds can be paid out electronically as a digital voucher for redeeming in store towards their grocery bill. Paperless payout brings added benefit for the environment and is more convenient for both consumers and retailers.

As well as digital payout of deposits, the myTOMRA app can show users a map overview of their nearest reverse vending machines, as well as whether those machines are currently open and available. Users can also log into a personal recycling session at the reverse vending machine to track their recycling progress and achievements.

myTOMRA functionality can be integrated with retailers’ existing apps and loyalty programs via APIs, or used as a stand-alone app. The myTOMRA app has over 350,000 users in Australia and the US, and is available free in Google Play and the Apple App Store.

TOMRA R1 results in more store visits and spending

Tailored to larger stores and redemption facilities collecting high volumes of containers, TOMRA R1 attracts visitors and increases the volume of containers returned, which can lead to increased loyalty and revenues for retailers.

Stores that tested out TOMRA R1 – even before the introduction of Express – saw an up to 60% increase in the number of consumer recycling sessions compared to the year before, and up to 218% more containers returned.

Retailers can contact TOMRA or their local TOMRA representative to arrange a demonstration of the new TOMRA R1 multi-feed reverse vending solution and Express returns.

About TOMRA Collection Solutions:

Founded in 1972, TOMRA provides reverse vending solutions for Clean Loop Recycling, collecting aluminium, plastic and glass beverage containers to be continually reused and recycled back into new bottles and cans. With over 82,000 installations across more than 60 markets, TOMRA’s reverse vending machines capture 40 billion used beverage containers every year toward a closed loop. This reduces reliance on raw materials, and ensures fewer containers end up in our streets, oceans and landfills. The TOMRA system of machines, digital solutions and service make it easy for the industry, system owners, retailers and consumers to contribute to a more sustainable planet. Visit our Reverse Vending pages on www.tomra.com, and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn.

TOMRA Collection Solutions is part of the TOMRA Group, which creates sensor-based solutions for optimal resource productivity, and has a vision to lead the Resource Revolution. The Group employs approximately 4000 people globally and is publicly listed on the Oslo Stock Exchange (OSE: TOM).