Rotterdam opens first deposit return shop

ROTTERDAM, 2 May 2025 – A dedicated return point for bottles and cans is opening in Rotterdam, offering a more accessible way to reclaim deposit money, including cash refunds.

First deposit return shop opens in Rotterdam

Rotterdam will host the first dedicated deposit return shop (Statiegeld Retourshop) in the Netherlands. The new concept is being launched by Statiegeld Nederland, part of Verpact, and will open its flagship store on 9 May in the Keizerswaard shopping centre. A second shop will follow shortly in Amsterdam.

The initiative aims to make the process of returning deposit packaging easier and more appealing for consumers, particularly in busy urban areas where supermarkets often experience high traffic at return machines.

Cash refunds for bottles at new return shop

Designed for efficiency and accessibility

The return shop is equipped with a bulk machine capable of processing more than 100 bottles and cans at once, as well as individual return machines, separate waste bins, a handwashing sink and a cash-out terminal. The cash payout is handled by Brink’s Paystation, an automated and secure system that allows users to receive their refund in cash without staff involvement. Alternatively, refunds can be issued via Tikkie or donated.

This automated system is designed to be both efficient and secure, with Brink’s solely responsible for managing the funds and machine operations.

Cash refunds for bottles at new return shop

Meeting a clear need in urban areas

According to Statiegeld Nederland director Jeroen Hillen, the opening of the return shops addresses a growing demand for more accessible deposit return points. “From now on, residents of Rotterdam and Amsterdam can visit our deposit return shops. This is a unique concept in the Netherlands where the process is reversed: you bring something in and receive money, instead of spending it,” Hillen stated.

He noted the current lack of legal obligation for shops to accept deposit packaging, which has led the organisation to take matters into its own hands. “Return convenience is key, and that’s why we want more collection points throughout the Netherlands. We continue to seek creative and accessible ways to collect deposit packaging, because every returned item is one more that can be recycled and reused,” he added.

Location and directions

The Statiegeld Retourshop is located at Keizerswaard 16 in the Keizerswaard shopping centre, a busy commercial area in the IJsselmonde district of southeast Rotterdam. The mall is accessible by tram and bus, with ample parking available nearby.