The DRS system and changes in consumer habits

By: Trademagazin Date: 2024. 08. 20. 12:12

On July 1st, the beverage packaging collection system was launched in Hungary, the aim of which is to encourage the population to recycle. From this date on, producers can only market their drinks in bottles and cans with a deposit fee. Consumers must pay a deposit fee of HUF 50 for every metal, glass and plastic bottle or box between 1 deciliter and 3 liters, which will only be returned if the packaging is returned undamaged to a REpoint machine operated by MOHU.

The introduction of the system had unexpected effects. The requirements of the deposit fee system, especially the need to return undamaged bottles, made the consumption of bottled mineral water inconvenient for many. For the time being, the number of return machines is limited, they are mainly found in larger stores, which makes it even more difficult to return bottles in rural areas. In the weeks leading up to the launch, several technical problems arose, such as full machines and non-functioning vending machines, which further increased dissatisfaction with the system – writes Telex in its article on the topic.

The revival of soda water

Parallel to the introduction of DRS, more and more people are returning to drinking traditional soda water. The increase in demand for soda bottles and siphons has been particularly noticeable in recent months. According to the online grocery store Kifli.hu, the turnover of the refillable wastewater in their range has increased almost two and a half times since January, and the sale of replacement cartridges for Sodastream machines has also increased by 50% compared to the same period last year. Gyula Gyula Györök, the managing director of Györök Kft., which deals with mineral water sales and parts production, reported a 25-30% increase in turnover.

Liss Zrt., the only siphon manufacturer in Hungary, also experienced a significant increase in domestic soda siphon sales: in July, a 90% increase was registered compared to the previous month. Although the data is still preliminary, the trends clearly show that the introduction of the redemption system has given a new impetus to the demand for soda water and soda siphon.