SPAR Netherlands launches recycling pilot at university stores

The deployment follows the success of earlier implementations at two supermarkets, expanding the initiative to three stores and one more supermarket across the country.

SPAR Netherlands and Statiegeld (Deposit) Nederland announced the launch of a new deposit system pilot across three SPAR university stores. 

This initiative introduces deposit machines utilizing the model of the reverse vending machine as a system. The machines provide students with a seamless and environmentally friendly way to recycle deposit bottles and cans. These have been installed at the stores at Hogeschool university in Eindhoven, and the Erasmus University in Rotterdam. 

Following the success of earlier implementations at two SPAR supermarkets, the pilot expanded the initiative to three SPAR university stores and the SPAR Supermarket in Amsterdam. 

By scanning products efficiently, the deposit machines enable users to receive their deposit directly into their account via Tikkie, in an effort to fit with Generation Z’s on-the-go lifestyle and requirement for sustainability.

The pilot aims to make deposit collection at university locations more sustainable for both consumers and SPAR retailers, contributing to a more responsible environmental footprint. Over the next six months, the pilot will be evaluated to measure its impact on customer satisfaction and operational performance.