“Redefining” reuse: Tomra and Shift4 partner on digital DRS to eliminate paper and boost collection

11 Dec 2023 --- Integrated payment and commerce technology specialist Shift4 is partnering with Tomra to create a fully digital payment process for Tomra’s reverse vending machines, which enables consumers to exchange reusable materials for a monetary reward. Shift4 will act as the acquirer and point-of-sale gateway provider.

This alliance aims to “redefine” the reuse experience, offering “unprecedented convenience and efficiency” to consumers while advancing environmentally conscious practices and supporting the European Union’s Emissions Trading System regulation in reducing CO2 emissions. 

“Our collaboration with Tomra highlights the power of innovation in reshaping traditional processes to drive sustainability and promote the circular economy,” says Ruben Frimand Nielsen, vice president of Sales & Business Development for the Nordics at Shift4. 

“Consumers today expect flexible and convenient payment solutions, and this expectation doesn’t end with vending machines. By facilitating a seamless, secure, digital return payment experience, we are able to support Tomra in its mission to reduce waste and promote responsible reuse and circular economy initiatives.” 

Around 55 billion takeaway packages are used annually in Europe. Current systems in Europe usually require multiple steps and employ paper coupons that must be redeemed for money at kiosks — a cumbersome process for consumers, and is a source of paper waste. 

This partnership will help to reduce paper waste in all of Europe and transform the way consumers engage with reusable materials, says the partnership. 

Eliminating paper from DRS 
Using Shift4’s cutting-edge payments technology, Tomra’s industry-leading reverse vending recycling machines will be equipped with a fully integrated “Tap-on-Card” payment mechanism to eliminate paper coupons and optimize the reuse process for consumers. 

Once a consumer has returned an empty reusable container to one of Tomra's collection points, they will be able to tap their credit or debit card and instantly receive the money into their bank account. By introducing digital payments into the reuse return system, Tomra and Shift4 say they are making recycling more convenient, efficient and rewarding. This will make collection rates rise and encourage more consumers to return their reusable packaging. 

“At Tomra, we are passionate about enabling the circular economy and transforming how the world uses and reuses its resources to eliminate waste,” says Geir Saether, senior vice president, Circular Economy of Tomra. 

“We are proud to align with Shift4 to integrate its fully paperless payment solution into our reverse vending machines. By combining Tomra's recycling technology with Shift4's expertise in payment processing, we are setting a new standard for convenience, efficiency and sustainability, reinforcing our commitment to drive innovation in a circular economy.” 

Edited by Louis Gore-Langton