Reusing instead of throwing away: That’s the idea behind the sustainable start-up reo. Together with VollCorner and Kaufland, the company is launching a pilot project in Munich. Cosmetics packaging can now be easily returned to the deposit machine. As a thank you, there is a reward of €0.29 per returned packaging.
The idea behind the project
Bottles, jars, cans – we have all handed in this packaging at the deposit machine at some point. Some of it is cleaned and reused, while the material is recycled for others. The start-up reo is now testing whether the same principle can be applied to cosmetics packaging. Unlike PET bottles, the packaging is actually intended to be reused. The next 12 months will show how well this works.
The challenge here is the different packaging shapes and materials. The protection of the product and an attractive appearance must be maintained. The aim of the pilot project is to find out which packaging is suitable and which is not. The extent to which consumers accept and use the system will also emerge during the test phase.
How the reusable system for cosmetics works
It is very simple for customers. Anyone who has lavera, Kneipp, Santé and Logona products at home can return them to the deposit machines in one of the participating stores. The machines have been retrofitted so that you can simply put your bottles or cans into the machine as before. As a thank you, you will receive €0.29 per returned packaging without having to pay for it beforehand.
At VollCorner and Kaufland, the relevant products are now marked with a sticker so that it is immediately clear which ones you can return. However, you can also return the packaging of the brands mentioned that you have purchased elsewhere. The campaign is currently valid until 30.10.2026, after which it remains to be seen whether the system will be maintained or even expanded. In addition to the VollCorner organic supermarket on Schwanthaler Höhe, the following Kaufland stores are also participating:
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- Munich: Kaufland Schwabing, Berg am Laim, Neuperlach, Moosach, Milbertshofen
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- Kaufland Gröbenzell
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- Kaufland Dachau
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- Kaufland Unterschleißheim
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- Kaufland Markt Schwaben
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- Kaufland Erding