They are further tightening the rules for exchanging glass: new restrictions in supermarket chains

By: Trademagazin Date: 2024. 11. 04. 11:41

Some supermarket chains have introduced new restrictions in the glass redemption system, which affect not only the maximum limit of the amount that can be paid, but also when the vouchers can be redeemed. According to the Pénzcentrum’s information, the redemption of vouchers issued by bottle exchange machines is subject to a new time limit, which specifies that they can only be used 15-30 minutes after issuance.

Decreasing payout limit

At the suggestion of MOHU, the bottle return system was further restricted: the maximum amount that can be paid in one transaction was reduced from HUF 9,000 to HUF 5,000. The move came as a surprise to customers who had previously received higher amounts back in a redemption operation.

Time limit for redeeming vouchers

Based on the information obtained by the Pénzcentrum, a new regulation came into effect: a minimum waiting period was prescribed for the redemption of vouchers received during redemption. In the case of vending machines operated by MOHU, vouchers can be redeemed no sooner than 15-30 minutes after issuance. This new practice has caused inconvenience to several customers who are used to the quick process between redemption and instant redemption.

Auchan’s position statement

At Auchanok, the customer can usually redeem the coupon within 2-3 minutes, because the system detects it within that time. In some cases, however, connecting the Auchan and MOHU systems can take up to 15-20 minutes. We have written the maximum time limit to prevent inconvenience. Perhaps we have not emphasized enough that you do not necessarily have to wait for this time, because the cashiers can immediately deduct the value of the coupon from the purchase, even at self-service checkouts. If someone does not want to use the coupon, they can immediately exchange it for cash at our customer services. There is no question of a deliberately delayed payment, there are several options for immediate validation of the coupon.

Message on the machines

A reader sent a photo to the Pénzcentrum editorial office, showing the screen of one of the bottle-returning machines of Auchan in Fót. The message on the screen draws customers’ attention to the new regulation, according to which vouchers can only be redeemed 15-30 minutes after they are issued.