Retailers protest against the reduction of deposit return fees

On July 31, 2025, MOHU informed its partners that, starting September 1, 2025, it would apply a new fee schedule that reduces the current per-bottle fee by more than half for retailers with stores larger than 400 square meters.

These affected retailers – including hypermarkets, supermarkets, and discounters – handle the return of two-thirds of all bottles. According to the Association’s calculations, even the current handling fee fails to cover operational costs. Reducing the fee would result in an additional annual revenue loss of HUF 6.5 billion. An expert review concluded that the fee should be raised to a minimum of HUF 10 per bottle to cover the costs of the legally mandated tasks required from retailers.

The situation is further exacerbated by frequent machine malfunctions, delays in collecting returned bottles, and inconsistent supply of equipment required for operation. All of this leads to disruptions in stores and inconvenience for customers. Moreover, MOHU does not ensure the twice-yearly deep cleaning recommended by the manufacturer. The machines, already under-capacitated for the Hungarian market, are overburdened, and the lack of proper cleaning leads to system failures. MOHU also fails to fulfill its informational and educational obligations, resulting in improper use of machines and additional breakdowns.

The success of the deposit return system is largely due to the cooperating retailers, who stepped up even when MOHU did not fully provide the conditions necessary for smooth operations. In this context, it is particularly disconcerting that MOHU avoids dialogue with retail stakeholders, as no prior professional consultation was held with partners regarding this decision.

OKSZ therefore calls for the immediate withdrawal of the unilateral fee modification and the establishment of a pricing scheme that covers justified costs.