MOHU spoke up about the DRS limit

By: Trademagazin Date: 2024. 10. 29. 12:34

As of October 26, the MOHU reduced the amount available for redeeming beverage packaging to HUF 5,000 in one transaction, in response to the request of the National Trade Association (OKSZ). In justifying the decision, the company stated: the aim of the move is to curb abuses, as there have been several cases where printed vouchers have been misused in a business-like manner. The modification of the previous HUF 9,000 limit can thus help stores avoid a decrease in their cash balance due to large-scale redemptions – Pénzcentrum.

According to OKSZ Secretary General Tamás Kozák, many retailers have reported that business-like redeemers do not use the vouchers for purchases, but exchange them for cash, which reduces the stores’ income while increasing the use of cash. According to the new regulations, the redemption limit applies to a maximum of HUF 5,000 for vouchers and immediate bank transfers.

According to MOHU’s announcement, the restriction affects only a minimal number of users: based on the October data, packaging worth more than HUF 5,000 was exchanged during a redemption transaction in only 6 thousandths of the cases. The average amount of redemption is around 19-20 bottles, while for those who choose immediate bank transfer, it is 25, and for those who choose charity offerings, only 5. According to the new system, if someone places the hundredth bottle in the machine, they can continue the redemption by starting a new transaction.

Regarding the change, Katalin Neubauer, the secretary general of the Hungarian National Trade Association, also expressed her satisfaction, as the chances of queues forming at REpoints can be reduced and the machines can operate with greater capacity and more smoothly. The amendment affects all refund machines operating nationwide, regardless of the refund method the user chooses.