Customer sets unprecedented shopping record, purchasing more than a thousand bottles of liquid items at Lidl.
In Germany, Lidl, along with other large discounters like Aldi and Kaufland, participates in the country's deposit return scheme for single-use bottles and cans. This practical and environmentally friendly system has recently sparked discussions online, with questions about space requirements, storage, and hygiene.
The system, which also includes single-use milk drinks since 2022, encourages customers to return their empty containers for a refund. By doing so, not only does the customer save money, but they also contribute to sustainability efforts.
However, branches may set their own limits to avoid long lines and blockages, usually around 20 bottles in smaller stores. If you have a large quantity of returns, it's recommended to contact the branch in advance or be flexible in time to avoid congestion at the machine.
A customer at Lidl in Fehmarn recently set a new record by returning over 1,100 bottles and cans. This monumental return took two and a half hours and two trips to the Lidl branch, with five trips to empty the machine. The customer's deposit receipt amounted to 282.25 euros.
The deposit return schemes applicable in each country vary, and Lidl follows local regulations. For instance, Ireland, since February 2024, requires returns for plastic bottles and aluminum/steel cans between 150mL and 3L, with deposits of €0.15 for containers up to 500mL and €0.25 for containers larger than 500mL up to 3L. Lithuania's system covers single-use plastic, metal, and glass bottles and cans from 0.1L (100mL) to 3L, with a fixed deposit of €0.10 per container.
In Finland, while specific bottle size limits for Lidl are not indicated, the country has a cash-back bottle return system using reverse vending machines, implying similar size constraints apply.
In general, Lidl stores accept bottle and can returns consistent with their country’s deposit return laws, which define container types and volume ranges eligible for deposit refunds. The common volume range across European schemes is approximately 100mL to 3L. Glass containers and certain products (e.g., wine, milk) may be exempt depending on the scheme.
It's essential to remember that there is no clear legal limit on the amount of packaging that can be returned at once. Therefore, it's best to be prepared and plan your returns accordingly to ensure a smooth and efficient process.
By 2025, PET bottles in Germany will contain at least 25% recycled material, further promoting sustainability and recycling efforts. Regularly collecting empty containers not only helps the customer's wallet but also contributes to a greener future.
[1] Lidl Ireland - Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) Information: https://www.lidl-ireland.com/en/sustainability/deposit-return-scheme [2] Lidl Ireland - Deposit Return Scheme: Frequently Asked Questions: https://www.lidl-ireland.com/en/sustainability/deposit-return-scheme-faqs [3] Finland's Cash-Back Bottle Return System: https://www.recyclemap.org/en/material-flows/beverage-containers/finland/
- With the ongoing deposit return schemes, Lidl customers can contribute to the home-and-garden movement by returning their empty bottles and cans,, rewarding them with a refund while promoting sustainable-living and reducing waste.
- In pursuit of sustainable-living and improving the other lifestyle aspects, countries like Ireland and Lithuania have implemented stringent deposit return schemes for various sizes of bottles and cans, making it essential for customers to be aware of their country's specific rules and plan their returns accordingly.
