SodaStream and TOMRA partner up for CO2 cylinder returns to reverse vending machines

The reverse vending machines will enable SodaStream customers to easily return their empty carbonating CO2 gas cylinders at SodaStream retailers.

SodaStream and TOMRA, both leaders in their industries, are piloting a customer-friendly solution for in-store return of used CO2 cylinders. The goal is to make cylinder exchange more efficient for both retailers and SodaStream customers.

Special SodaStream-branded reverse vending machines (RVMs) are now being installed in retail stores across the European Union and the United States.

This is also a perfect solution in the current retail situation as the reverse vending machines ease social distancing by avoiding the need to go to customer service for the return of the used CO2 cylinders.

How does it work?

SodaStream customers purchase the CO2 cylinders to make sparkling water or sparkling beverages in their homes. When the CO2 cylinder is empty, customers can return it and exchange it for a full one. Now, instead of queuing at a customer service desk or check out to return the used CO2 cylinder, or coordinating online shipping services, customers can place the empty cylinder in the reverse vending machines and receive a voucher for the value of the used cylinder. This voucher will act as a credit toward the purchase of a new CO2 refill at the retailer store in which the reverse vending machine operates.

SodaStream CO2 cylinders are produced to remain in a closed loop, whereby all cylinders are returned to SodaStream refill plants where they are cleaned, filled and sealed for reuse. Thus, the importance of making the CO2 return smooth and easy is another step forward to support SodaStream’s commitment in providing a sustainable loop system focusing on reuse.

SodaStream and TOMRA together share a common commitment to helping reduce single-use plastic bottle waste through the use of their products.

SodaStream, part of PepsiCo, is the world's leader in at-home sparkling beverage preparation. SodaStream bubbles are better for the consumer – healthy, easy to make, light to carry – and better for the planet. A SodaStream reusable carbonating bottle may replace the need for thousands of single-use plastic bottles.

TOMRA operates over 84,000 reverse vending installations across more than 60 markets – with seven of every 10 reverse vending solutions worldwide produced by TOMRA.

“We hope the TOMRA reverse vending solution will bring smoother logistics for both SodaStream retailers and customers, and make it even easier for streamers to exchange their cylinders and do their part for the environment,” commented Eyal Shohat SodaStream CEO. “We take pride in partnering with an industry leader that shares our vision to make the beverage space more sustainable.”

“This partnership expands the ways in which TOMRA reduces waste in our environment. The closed-loop recycling of drink containers and now the facilitation of reusing CO2 cylinders are examples of how TOMRA is leading the way in contributing to a circular economy,” said Anneli Forsman, Senior VP for TOMRA Collection in Northern Europe. “We are delighted to bring TOMRA reverse vending technologies beyond traditional can and bottle returns to new and meaningful applications.”

Contact [email protected] if you have any questions, need images or would like to arrange to speak to the TOMRA team.