Disposable deposit from 2025: Small dealers in Zwettl with great challenges

Disposable deposit from 2025: Small dealers in Zwettl with great challenges

From January 1, 2025, a new disposable deposit system will be introduced in Austria, which primarily affects the beverage packaging made of plastic and metal. The Zwettl district, known for its small shops and gastronomy, is faced with a huge change. Small business owners not only have to adapt their companies, but also invest in new withdrawal technologies in order to meet the new legal requirements.

The duty to withdraw not only applies to grocery stores, but also to restaurants such as sausage stands and other trading companies that offer drinks. With every return of the packaging, consumers should receive 25 cents of deposit as soon as they release the empty containers. This is a major challenge, especially for smaller dealers who often have limited resources.

growing challenges for small business owners

According to Anne Blauensteiner, the chairwoman of the Chamber of Commerce, the companies are aware of what challenges they face. "We actively support our members in implementing this new regulation," said a spokesman for the Kastner Group, who plays a major role in the region. The introduction of return points in Kastner pick-up markets should make the process easier. The food dealer also emphasizes that training and information materials are provided to make the return efficiently.

Despite these measures, the financial burden for smaller dealers remains a big issue. The investment costs for new technologies such as empty machines are high, and ongoing maintenance costs come on top. In addition, many companies need additional storage space to stow the returned packaging. The virtualization of packaging is considered by the entrepreneurs with mixed feelings; While the environmental aspect is positively recognized, there are also concerns about the social and economic effects on small businesses in the region.