For collectors

For collectors

No matter whether supermarket, bakery, tobacconist, snack bar, sausage stand or drinks outlet: From 2025, anyone who sells beverages in cans or single-use PET in Austria must also collect containers with few exceptions. The containers are collected either manually or using reverse vending machines.

learn more
Who has to collect containers?

Who has to collect containers?

Anyone who sells beverages in cans or PET bottles must also collect these containers and is thus a collector. The following exceptions/framework conditions apply:

  • Restaurants and small sales outlets only take back the quantities that they sell on average.
  • Central collection points are permitted in railways stations, airports and shopping centres/streets.
  • In the case of vending machine sales, a collection point must be indicated on the vending machine. This must be within walking distance.

Return options

Collection using reverse vending machines

Collection using reverse vending machines

The unambiguous recording and compaction of the containers is done by reverse vending machines. Consumers receive a voucher that can be redeemed at the checkout.

learn more
Manual collection

Manual collection

In the case of manual collection, consumers return the bottles and cans directly to small sales outlets (without vending machine support) and have their deposit reimbursed.

learn more