SDR Portugal expands packaging collection network for restaurants and cafés

DR Portugal is expanding the collection network of the Deposit Return System (DRS), aiming to provide solutions adapted to different packaging return needs across the country. For establishments in the HoReCa sector, including cafés, restaurants, hotels and other similar operators, this expansion means increased collection capacity through volta Kiosks, which complement automated volta Collection Points and the Direct Collection service.

Four months after the launch of the DRS, which covers single-use beverage containers with a capacity of up to 3 litres, six volta Kiosks are already operational nationwide — in Albufeira, Barcelos, Cascais, Funchal, Ponta Delgada and Vila Nova de Famalicão. Agreements have also been reached with the municipalities of Almada, Aveiro, Mafra, Oeiras, Portimão and Vila do Conde for upcoming installations. The objective is to reach 50 Kiosks across the country.

Three solutions to meet different packaging return needs

The volta collection network is designed to accommodate different return contexts and volumes, with a deposit of €0.10 per container, fully refundable when packaging is returned in the required condition: empty, uncrushed, with its cap attached, and with the volta symbol and barcode clearly legible.

For establishments in the HoReCa sector, three distinct solutions are available, allowing packaging to be returned according to each establishment’s specific needs:

volta Kiosks: these form part of the DRS supplementary collection network and allow large volumes of packaging to be returned at once, increasing collection capacity in urban areas and locations with high footfall.

At volta Kiosks, several deposit refund options are available. Through the App volta€, a digital solution that allows users to recover the deposit value of returned containers and subsequently transfer the accumulated amount to their linked bank account. Alternatively, deposits can be donated to Cáritas Portuguesa, the Portuguese Firefighters League, the Portuguese League for Nature Protection or the Portuguese League for Animal Rights. Refunds through MB WAY will also be available soon.

The installation of volta Kiosks is the result of close cooperation with municipalities, as these structures are installed in public spaces and require local collaboration. This approach enables the progressive expansion of the network to different areas of the country.

Automated volta Collection Points: available in supermarkets and hypermarkets, these allow consumers to return packaging through reverse vending machines.

This network has grown from approximately 2,500 automated Collection Points at the system’s launch to more than 3,000 currently, reflecting the increasing use of volta and the expanding reach of the DRS.

Direct Collection service: allows establishments to request packaging collection directly from SDR Portugal at their premises, providing a convenient solution adapted to their return needs. The service is free for collections of at least four full bags and is available to establishments that register as volta Collection Partners through the SDR Portugal portal.

Registration must be validated by the System Operator, which verifies that the establishment meets the necessary requirements to benefit from this service, particularly having a sufficient volume of packaging to justify direct collection. This ensures the efficiency and sustainability of the solution.

A step-by-step registration video is available on the website, and support can be requested at any stage of the process via email or the telephone helpline.

Leonardo Mathias, President of SDR Portugal, explains: “We are fully aware of the importance of establishments in the HoReCa sector to the success of volta and to achieving separate collection targets. It is therefore essential that these establishments are familiar with the available packaging return solutions and understand that direct collection at their premises is also an option, avoiding unnecessary journeys and making the process more convenient.

Furthermore, expanding the collection network through the installation of volta Kiosks represents another step towards providing solutions adapted to different needs, allowing large volumes of packaging to be returned, which we know is a real necessity for many of these establishments. Cooperation with municipalities has been essential for the installation of these facilities, and we want to continue working together to bring Kiosks to other locations across the country. This is a particularly relevant solution that meets the needs of all citizens, but especially those of restaurants, cafés and other operators.”

The expansion of the network comes at a time of increasing use of the Deposit Return System.

How do volta Kiosks work?

What is the difference between volta Kiosks and automated volta Collection Points?

volta Kiosks are designed for those who wish to return large volumes of packaging at once, as each machine can collect approximately 120 containers per minute. They are located in urban areas with a higher concentration of HoReCa establishments, offering convenient access and opening hours adapted to local needs.

This distinguishes them from automated volta Collection Points, located in supermarkets and hypermarkets, where containers are returned one at a time.

Where are volta Kiosks located?

The locations of volta Kiosks are available at https://volta.com.pt/onde-devolver/.

Currently, six Kiosks are operational: Albufeira, Barcelos, Cascais, Funchal, Ponta Delgada and Vila Nova de Famalicão.

How are deposits refunded?

Users of volta Kiosks can recover their deposits through the App volta€, a practical, secure and fast solution that eliminates the need for paper vouchers. The mobile application, available for Android and iOS, allows users to transfer their accumulated deposit value to their linked bank account.

Refunds through MB WAY will also be available soon.

Alternatively, deposits can be donated to a charitable organisation, namely Cáritas Portuguesa, the Portuguese Firefighters League, the Portuguese League for Nature Protection or the Portuguese League for Animal Rights.

How does the Direct Collection service work?

What is required to join the Direct Collection service?

Establishments must register as volta Collection Partners through the SDR Portugal portal and enter into an agreement with the System Operator.

On the SDR Portugal website, in the section dedicated to HoReCa establishments, a video tutorial provides step-by-step guidance on registration, packaging preparation and collection requests.

Is the service free?

The service is free for establishments that have at least four full bags (240 litres each) ready for collection.

For collections of up to three bags, a fee of €13 + VAT applies when carried out on working days between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. This amount may be adjusted depending on market conditions or other justified circumstances.

Can any type of bag be used for packaging collection through the Direct Collection service?

No. The use of bags and security seals (consumables) authorised by SDR Portugal is mandatory.

Each 240-litre bag has an estimated capacity of approximately 200 containers. Once full, the bags must be sealed using tamper-proof security seals, identified by unique barcodes that ensure packaging traceability.

The process for ordering consumables is detailed in the document “Consumables Ordering and Delivery Procedure”, available in the section dedicated to HoReCa establishments on the SDR Portugal website.

Where can further information about the Direct Collection service be found?

Information is available on the SDR Portugal website at https://sdrportugal.pt/horeca/.

It is recommended that establishments consult the document “HoReCa Establishment Guide | volta Collection Partner”.