Reverse vending machines
Reverse vending machines swap recyclable materials such as plastic bottles, glass bottles and aluminium cans for special offer vouchers.
What is a reverse vending machine?
Reverse vending machines, or RVMs, are highly efficient recycling machines that are used by the general public to deposit empty, single-use beverage containers in return for a pre-paid deposit or non-monetary reward – for example, vouchers, discounts, credit, or charity donations. Once the machines are full, the compacted bottles and cans are collected for onward recycling. They play an important role in regions that run Deposit Return Schemes (DRS). For retailers, convenience stores, and other shopping locations, you will likely, as part of a DRS, have responsibility for the recycling of plastic, aluminium, and sometimes glass that is put onto the market.
The introduction of DRS is expected to significantly increase recycling rates, reduce litter, and create a more circular economy for drinks containers. The scheme will place a small deposit on top of the price of a drink, which will be refunded to the consumer when they return the empty container to a designated collection point, such as a reverse vending machine. This financial incentive is proven to encourage more people to recycle, leading to less waste ending up in landfills or as litter in our environment. By participating in the DRS and installing RVMs, businesses can not only contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable future but also demonstrate their commitment to environmental responsibility to their customers.
Discover our full range of machines and what waste stream each model can assist with:
Reverse vending machines for can & plastic bottles
100 range
The RVM 100 is perfect for businesses that have multiple waste streams because the machine holds a capacity for aluminium cans and plastic bottles.
Find out more200 range
The RVM 200 is perfect for businesses that have multiple waste streams because the machine is able to sort and segregate aluminium cans and plastic bottles.
Find out more400 range
The RVM 400 range is perfect for businesses that have multiple waste streams because the machine holds a higher capacity of aluminium cans and plastic bottles.
Find out moreReverse vending machines for glass bottles
Our reverse vending machines are designed to suit the needs of your business. The RVM 1000 is perfect for businesses that have a large quantity of glass drink bottles.
Perfect for large quantities of glass drinks bottles – visit to find out more about the range today.
View productRVM 2000
The RVM 2000 is perfect for businesses that have multiple waste streams because the machine holds a capacity for aluminium cans, plastic bottles and glass bottles.
Find out moreRVM 1450X
The EcoVend 1450x range has a variety of features, including a step-by-step user voice command option for accessibility. It also arrives in two different models, the standard and then the new X range. It arrives with a maximum 3 litre container for PET, and a 1 litre container glass.
Find out moreWhat are the benefits of a reverse vending machine?
Reverse vending machines have gained significant popularity in the last five years. Impressive levels of user engagement across Europe have led to up to 97% of beverage container recycling waste in some countries. The machines will accept empty aluminum cans, plastic, and glass bottles, and return a reward.
Government Deposit Return Schemes (DRS) may vary with different rewards and/or rebates. Without DRS , discounts, promotions and special offers from participating businesses can all be offered including making charitable donations.
How do reverse vending machines work?
A highly efficient recycling machine that is used by the general public to deposit empty single-use beverage containers in return for a monetary or non-monetary reward. Once the machines are filled, the compacted bottles and cans are collected for onward recycling. RVMs provide a simple and effective solution to prevent beverage container waste from polluting our land and oceans.