Serbia’s planned deposit-return system for beverage packaging from 2027 is set to extend beyond environmental policy, creating new requirements for retailers, beverage producers, logistics operators, recyclers and technology providers. Under the system, bottles and cans subject to a deposit would have to be collected, counted, transported, reconciled and ultimately recycled. This would connect consumers, supermarkets, beverage companies, recycling operators, banks and technology providers through a national packaging-recovery network.
Retailers to become collection points
Large retail chains are expected to occupy a central position in the system. Supermarkets may require reverse-vending machines, additional storage for compacted packaging, new staff procedures and cash or digital reimbursement systems. The operational requirements are likely to vary by store size and location. High-traffic outlets can process larger volumes more efficiently, while smaller shops may require shared collection points or alternative arrangements. This would make retail networks physical components of the recycling infrastructure, adding packaging collection to their existing sales operations.
Beverage producers face new recovery requirements
Beverage manufacturers have a direct interest in both recovery rates and the quality of collected materials. Recycled PET and aluminium are becoming increasingly important inputs, while deposit systems can generate cleaner and more consistent material streams than mixed municipal waste. Improved material recovery could support investment in domestic recycling capacity and reduce reliance on imported secondary raw materials.
The new system would also create demand for specialised technology. Suppliers of reverse-vending machines, barcode systems, fraud-detection solutions, settlement platforms and logistics software would become part of the operating infrastructure. The system administrator would require near-real-time information to reconcile deposits collected and refunded across millions of individual transactions.
Implementation brings retail and operating costs
The transition will involve additional costs and operational changes across the supply chain. Retailers will face questions over floor space and capital expenditure, while beverage producers will have to address system fees. Consumers will also assess the convenience of returning packaging and receiving refunds. System design will affect operating performance, with poorly structured arrangements potentially creating queues, fraud risks and elevated operating costs.
The deposit mechanism gives discarded packaging a direct monetary value, increasing the financial incentive for consumers to return bottles and cans rather than dispose of them through conventional waste channels. For Serbia’s retail industry, which has invested in physical stores, e-commerce and loyalty programmes, the deposit-return system would introduce another layer of infrastructure, centred on the collection and processing of packaging after products have been consumed.
