Tomra R1 makes its debut in Ireland
The new Tomra machine can be found at Kelly’s Spar Newcastle, Co. Dublin
Global reverse vending leader Tomra Collection has released today in Ireland Tomra R1, a multi-feed reverse vending machine (RVM) that enables recyclers in Ireland’s deposit return system (DRS) to pour more than 100 empty beverage containers into the machine in one go – rather than inserting them one by one.
It is the first multi-feed RVM available in the Irish market since the start of DRS.
The Tomra R1 offers an efficient, more user-friendly and convenient recycling experience.
This can attract shoppers to the store and increase the volume of containers returned, driving increased loyalty and revenue for retailers.
Today, more than 600 machines are in operation globally, in markets like Germany, Norway, Sweden, Finland, Denmark and the United States.
The desire for a fast-recycling experience was confirmed in a consumer study conducted by Tomra in active DRS. 48% of respondents say they would like to use multi-feed reverse vending machines, and were interested in returning containers in bulk, rather than inserting them one by one.
“This innovation enables faster, high-capacity returns, allowing more people to recycle easily and helping Ireland move closer to our sustainability goals. It’s an exciting step forward for Tomra and for Ireland’s Deposit Return Scheme,” said Peter Whelan, managing director, Tomra Collection Ireland.
Brian Kelly, store owner, Kelly’s Spar Newcastle, said: “The Tomra R1 will save our customers time as they can now recycle over 100 containers in seconds – while creating a more seamless and enjoyable recycling experience.”
Ciarán Foley, chief executive officer, Re-turn, said: “We’d like to thank all those in the retail sector and the Scheme approved RVM suppliers for all the work they have done to help to make this important circular economy initiative such a success to date.”
How does the TOMRA R1 work?
Recyclers open the hatch and pour their empty cans and plastic bottles into the machine and close the lid to begin the counting and sorting process. They then collect their voucher and start shopping. Ineligible containers are returned to the user via the reject chute.
With an accessible product design, the Tomra R1 is easy to clean and maintain. Tomra R1 is also the first RVM with an operator interface screen located inside the machine, so store personnel have all the information they need at their fingertips.
For recyclers, Tomra R1 provides a mess-free recycling experience as there is no need to handle each bottle – consumers can do their part for the planet without getting their hands sticky.
Tomra R1 is also intuitive to use, reduces queues, and offers efficient and fast recycling. When returning over 100 beverage containers, recycling at Tomra R1 is up to five times faster than using a single-feed solution, since containers do not need to be inserted one by one.
