Reverse Vending: Costcutter Bargain Booze Brockley

Supporting Sustainable Retail Waste Recycling through Reverse Vending

About Costcutter Bargain Booze Brockley

Costcutter Bargain Booze Brockley, managed by ZOLA Ltd is a convenience store operator serving local communities with everyday essentials. In 2024, the store underwent a refit, creating a refreshed space for their customers. Sustainability was a major focus during the refit, driven by customer behaviour. They noticed that many of their customers appreciate actions which demonstrate commitment to greener operations.

Store Manager, Zaheer Ahmed said:

“Our customers love to play their part for helping the environment, they won’t even use plastic bags they are very conscientious about impact of choices”

Taking this into account, while looking ahead, ZOLA Ltd decided that installing a Reverse Vending Machine was the best way to allow customers to be involved in their sustainability journey while strengthening their environmental credentials.

Why Reverse Vending?

ZOLA Ltd recognised a broader opportunity. With the UK Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) set to launch in October 2027, they took the opportunity to introduce innovative recycling technology which would both improve their customers experience and help them with early adoption for the scheme.

Key considerations

• Sustainability
• Customer experience

For convenience retailers, footprint is always a key consideration. Every square foot must contribute to the success of the store, meaning any new equipment or service must add clear value without impacting the customer journey. Recognising this, ZOLA Ltd chose a solution that benefits both their customers and their store. By prioritising sustainability and introducing responsible recycling practices, ZOLA Ltd enhanced the store environment while maintaining a seamless customer experience.

The Solution

ZOLA Ltd sought a partner who could deliver a space-efficient solution, while laying the groundwork for full DRS compliance in the future. Partnering with Reverse Vending Machine specialists, EcoVend, in 2024, a RVM100 was installed, selecting a solution that balanced sustainability with the practical demands of its space. With a limited footprint available, the priority was to introduce a recycling solution that could be integrated without impacting the customer environment.

The compact 100 Eco, EcoVend’s second smallest reverse vending machine, met these requirements while providing smart recycling for single-use bottles and cans.

The Objectives

Measuring the success of this, objectives were clearly defined, seeking to achieve:

• Increase recycling rates
• Reduce environmental impact
• Support sustainable retail operations
• Improve customer perception through greener business practices
• Ensure store waste was recycled responsibly
• Support environmentally friendly retail practices
• Strengthen customer trust and engagement
• Demonstrate commitment to sustainability

Methodology

EcoVend managed the process end to end, from delivery through to ongoing remote support via a dedicated helpdesk. Installation was carried out by EcoVend engineers, who worked closely with ZOLA Ltd to schedule the work at a time that suited the store. The result was a straightforward, plug-and-play installation, with the machine ready for use immediately after installation.

ZOLA Ltd Operations Manager, James Leggett, said:

“The installation and setup was easy and hassle-free”

Approved recycling and waste management partners then supported the ongoing collection and processing of recyclable materials.

Beyond this, the store also has visibility on data insights through the EcoVend platform. With the platform being accessible via both parties, it makes the experience easier for managers when talking with account managers on recycling statistics and offers wider visibility on any issues, if they occur, improving remote fix rate.

The Results

ZOLA Ltd were very happy with the results of their investment into an RVM, with all objectives being successfully met.

• The first month: Over 100 containers
• Thousands of containers recycled year-to-date

The Outcome

Improved Customer Experience

The increase in footfall following the installation of the Reverse Vending Machine demonstrates the measurable impact that sustainability initiatives can have on customer behaviour. ZOLA Ltd reported an increase in both store footfall and returning customers, with shoppers responding positively to the convenience of being able to recycle while they shop. The introduction of the RVM also contributed to higher levels of customer satisfaction, reinforcing the value their customers place on accessible environmental initiatives. These outcomes show that investing in sustainable infrastructure not only enhances the customer experience but can also strengthen customer loyalty, encourage repeat visits, and deliver tangible commercial benefits alongside positive environmental impact.

Store Manager, Zaheer Ahmed, said:

“The RVM100 sits well within our demographic of our customer base and complements our in-store offering”

Regulatory Readiness

By investing early in a Reverse Vending Machine, ZOLA Ltd has already established the infrastructure, operational processes, and supplier relationships needed for a smooth transition when the scheme launches. Having already achieved strong customer engagement without a financial incentive, the store is well placed to see participation increase further once deposits are introduced, transforming its early investment into both an operational and reputational advantage.

Competitive Advantage

ZOLA Ltd has given the Costcutter Bargain Booze Brockley store a clear advantage over neighbouring retailers, through the implementation of an RVM.

• Seen as a leading retailer when it comes to sustainability in the area
• Increase revenue opportunity through the experienced increase footfall since the installation.
• Strengthened customer loyalty, as the store observed their customer behaviours, investing in sustainable initiatives.
• Prepared for the Deposit Return Scheme, with customers already in the habit of recycling in-store, enabling a seamless transition when the scheme launches.

ZOLA Ltd Operations Manager, James Leggett said:

“I would encourage other retailers who’s customers share the same ethics to invest in a Reverse Vending Machine as it definitely makes you stand out compared to your competition, it has proven to drive loyalty and footfall and even encourage new customers to the store.”