Deposit system in Poland
– key information
Modern machines and solutions supporting sales, logistics, and the deposit system.
Deposit system in Poland
– how does it work
and who does it apply to?
The deposit system is a widespread mechanism for collecting beverage packaging, aimed at increasing recycling rates and reducing environmental pollution.
„The deposit is added to the price of the beverage at checkout, and it can be refunded after returning the packaging in-store or via a machine – without the need to present a receipt.”
4VS Expert
All retail units selling beverages in deposit-covered packaging are involved in the system – regardless of their business profile.
Plastic bottles (PET)
Plastic packaging with a capacity of up to 3 liters is covered by the deposit system.
The deposit amount is PLN 0.50 for each bottle marked with the system logo.
Bottles should be returned uncrushed, with a clearly visible label.
Metal cans
The system includes metal cans with a capacity of up to 1 liter.
A deposit of PLN 0.50 is charged and refunded for each can.
Returns can be made at collection points and in reverse vending machines.
Glass bottles*
The system includes reusable glass bottles with a capacity of up to 1.5 liters. The deposit amount is PLN 1.00 per package. The obligation to accept them applies to stores selling beverages in such packaging.
* As of January 2026, the collection of glass bottles has been partially postponed due to a decision on the phased implementation of this segment of the system. The topic has been widely discussed in the media, particularly in the context of return logistics and the readiness of retail points.
Collection points
Where can deposit-covered packaging be returned?
Packaging marked with the deposit system logo can be returned at various collection points. The scope of obligations depends on the store’s sales area and the type of beverages offered. The system also allows returns via reverse vending machines outside of retail locations.
Stores with a sales area over 200 m²
Stores with a sales area exceeding 200 m² are required to accept all packaging covered by the deposit system.
This includes plastic bottles, metal cans, and reusable glass bottles.
The deposit is refunded in cash, without the need to present a receipt.
Stores with a sales area below 200 m²
Small stores may voluntarily join the deposit system and collect packaging.
If they sell beverages in reusable glass bottles, they are required to accept them.
The scope of accepted packaging depends on the store’s participation in the system.
Reverse vending machines and other collection points
Packaging covered by the system can also be returned via reverse vending machines, including outside retail locations.
Each municipality must have at least one stationary collection point for packaging.
Such solutions increase system accessibility and make it easier for consumers to return deposits.
Frequently asked questions
Answers to key questions about packaging, deposits, and return rules.
The deposit system is a mechanism that supports recycling and the reuse of beverage packaging.
It involves adding a deposit to the price of a drink and refunding it after returning the empty packaging at a collection point. This allows packaging to be reused multiple times instead of ending up in the environment.
The system covers only packaging marked with the deposit logo:
plastic bottles up to 3 liters, metal cans up to 1 liter, and reusable glass bottles up to 1.5 liters.
The deposit amount is shown directly on the packaging.
The deposit system does not include, among others, packaging for milk and dairy drinks, cartons for juice and milk, as well as single-use glass packaging.
Such packaging should be sorted in accordance with applicable waste management rules.
No. A receipt is not required to receive a deposit refund.
What matters is whether the packaging is covered by the system and has a clearly visible deposit logo and barcode.
Packaging can be returned at stores required to collect it, at stores that have voluntarily joined the system, as well as in reverse vending machines.
The system also предусматриes collection points operating outside of retail locations.
The packaging should be empty, undamaged, and uncrushed.
The deposit logo and barcode must remain clearly visible, and caps should be left on – they are recycled together with the packaging.
Yes. Every point of sale offering beverages in packaging covered by the system charges a deposit, regardless of its size or business profile.
This also applies to takeaway sales, vending machines, restaurants, and non-food stores.
Unclaimed deposits are transferred to deposit system operators.
These funds are used to finance the operation of the system, including the collection, transport, and processing of packaging.
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