German retailers Kaufland and VollCorner Biomarkt have launched a pilot project with the digital platform Reo to test a deposit return system (DRS) specifically for personal-care packaging in Germany.
The trial covers products from brands like Kneipp and Logocos Naturkosmetik, and allows consumers to return empty containers at dedicated machines in ten Kaufland stores and three VollCorner outlets around Munich, receiving a refund of €0.29 (≈ US$0.34) per item.
At the project’s kickoff event — held in partnership with the Zero Waste Innovation Hub in Munich — Reo’s CEO, Steffanie Rainer, said they aim to show that sustainable consumption does not require extra effort, when the system is integrated into daily routines.
Kaufland notes that return-eligible packaging is clearly labelled with stickers on both the product packaging and shelf signage, simplifying the process for consumers.
Kaufland’s international sales manager, Jessica Koch, added that the retailer is collaborating with start-ups to shape the future of retail and deliver sustainable value: start-ups bring innovation, and Kaufland offers retail scale and expertise.
The article also points out that while deposit return systems in the personal care category are still fairly new, many in the industry are already embracing refillable packaging as a sustainable alternative to single-use formats.