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Why Being a Return Point Matters

When Deposit Return Schemes launch, customers will need somewhere convenient to return their empty drink containers.

Getting started

Why does being a return point matter?

When Deposit Return Schemes launch, customers will need somewhere convenient to return their empty drink containers.

For retailers, becoming a return point is not simply about accepting containers. It can also create another reason for customers to visit your store.

Could return points influence where customers shop?

Convenience matters.

If customers regularly return containers to another retailer, they may also choose to spend their refunded deposit, and make additional purchases, while they are there.

Being a convenient return point can help:

  • Bring customers into your store
  • Encourage repeat visits
  • Support customer loyalty
  • Create opportunities for additional purchases
  • Generate handling fee income

What if customers return elsewhere?

A customer who leaves your store to return their containers elsewhere may also choose to shop there.

Over time, return habits could become part of normal shopping habits.

For retailers, the question may therefore be more than simply "Do I want to accept returns?"

It may also be:

"Where will my customers go if I don't?"

More than a recycling service

A well-managed return point can become part of the customer experience.

Making returns simple, convenient and reliable can give customers another reason to choose your store and help position your business as part of the local recycling infrastructure.

Diagram showing how operating a return point draws customers into the store and generates handling fee income alongside additional purchases.