Take-back ObligatiOns? DrOppie has yOu cOvered

Take-back obligations for packaging: are you ready?

The government is introducing a take-back obligation for retailers selling plastic bottles and cans. Currently, a lack of machines and long queues are preventing the Netherlands from meeting the legal 90% target. Droppie is happy to take that obligation off your hands: we provide the bulk machine, so you don't have to worry about a thing.

What is the take-back obligation for deposit packaging?

Starting January 1, 2028, a new rule will apply in the Netherlands: retail outlets that sell plastic bottles and cans must also accept them for return and provide a refund.

This makes returning containers easier for consumers and helps the Netherlands reach the legal collection target of 90%, a requirement mandated by Europe.

Why this obligation?

  • Hundreds of millions of bottles and cans are currently being left behind. Too few machines and long lines make returning them simply too much of a hassle.
  • Europe requires a 90% collection rate. If the Netherlands fails to meet this, the EU will automatically impose stricter and more costly regulations on all retail outlets starting in 2029.
  • Less litter, fewer rummaged-through trash cans. Bottles and cans that aren't returned often end up in the trash, leading to messy bins and a significant amount of unclaimed deposits.

WhO needs tO adapt? That depends On the size Of yOur stOre

Large retail outlets (≥ 200 m²)
Take-back obligation: mandatory

  • Collect plastic bottles and cans
  • Must be able to provide cash refunds
  • Examples: large supermarkets, hardware stores

Medium-sized retail outlets (50–200 m²)
Take-back obligation: mandatory

  • Collect plastic bottles and cans
  • Choose your own refund method (cash, app, or other)
  • Examples: smaller supermarkets, gas stations, drugstores

Small retail outlets (< 43 m²)
Take-back obligation: exempt

  • Not mandatory, but you are always welcome to participate
  • Set up a voluntary donation bin
  • Examples: kiosks, convenience stores

What dOes the Take-back ObligatiOns mean fOr yOur business?

Space and foot traffic
A reverse vending machine requires floor space in your store, needs to be kept clean, and consumes electricity. During peak hours, queues can form at the machine.

Costs, but not at your expense
Space, maintenance, and energy consumption all cost money. The good news: Verpact provides full cost coverage, so you won't be left out of pocket.

Consumer convenience works in your favor
Customers want a drop-off point nearby. If you cater to this effectively, it becomes more than just a requirement—it’s a reason for customers to choose your store.

How DrOppie helps you

One collection point for the entire street

You don’t need to install a collection machine in your own store. Droppie does things differently: we set up a single shared collection point—ideally a Droppie store equipped with a bulk machine—right in the heart of your shopping street, which multiple retailers can join.

The Droppie model: collecting together, not separately
Instead of every store installing its own expensive machine, Droppie provides one shared collection point for the entire neighborhood.

Collaboration - Stores within approximately 150 meters walking distance share one or more collection machines. Are you a large retailer with a mandatory take-back obligation? You can simply refer customers to a bulk machine slightly further away, up to about 500 meters—without the hassle of handling cash payouts in your own store. You may be using an older version that is no longer supported.

Cost savings
- Sharing is cheaper. No expensive machine just for your store, and no floor space lost to collection. Droppie handles the technology and maintenance.

Findability via the app - Customers can see exactly where the nearest collection point is in the Droppie app, including yours.

Compliance taken care of - We ensure everything meets the mandatory take-back requirements. You simply refer your customers to the shared collection point: Droppie.

YOur benefits at a glance

  • Lower costs - no solo investment in your own collection machine
  • Less work - Droppie handles the entire intake process
  • Customer loyalty - you offer the convenience that customers expect from sustainable companies
  • Lower costs - you decide how you pay back

Let Droppie handle the collection.

 Get in touch

Ready for 2028?

Enter your details, and we'll look together at what the deposit return obligation means for your store. You'll hear from us within 2 business days.

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FAQ

When does the collection obligation take effect?

January 1, 2028. You can start preparing now.

What if my store is smaller than 43 m²?

Then you are exempt. You can always choose to participate voluntarily, for example with a donation bin, which still contributes to the collection goal.

How much does a shared collection point cost?

Much less than installing a machine yourself. Costs for space, cleaning, and electricity are reimbursed by Verpact.

Can I provide cash refunds on-site?

Yes, for large stores (≥ 200 m²) it is mandatory. If you are a medium-sized store, you can choose: cash, app, voucher, or another method.

How does a shared collection point work in practice?

Instead of every store installing its own expensive machine, Droppie provides a single shared collection point for the entire neighborhood.

Collaboration - Stores within approximately 150 meters walking distance share one or more collection machines. Are you a large store with a payout obligation? You can also refer customers to a bulk machine a little further away, up to about 500 meters — without the hassle of cash payouts in your own store. You may be using an older version that is no longer supported.

Cost savings - Sharing is cheaper. No expensive machine just for your store, no floor space lost to collection. Droppie handles the technology and maintenance.

Findability via the app - Customers can see exactly where the nearest collection point is in the Droppie app, including yours.

Compliance covered - We ensure everything meets the collection requirements. You simply refer your customers to the shared collection point, Droppie.

Ready to get started?

Droppie helps you get compliance-ready for 2028 while saving you money. Fill out the form and we will get in touch.