Vending

Smart DRS processes 150K reusable cup returns

Image courtesy Smart DRS

August 26, 2026

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Dublin, Ireland-based Smart DRS says its automated deposit-return technology has processed more than 150,000 reusable cups since its first live deployment in late April, according to a press release. The system has been used at sporting events, music festivals and cultural events, as well as at seasonal locations. Major deployments included more than 44,300 returns during the 2026 IIHF Ice Hockey U18 World Championship, 42,600 at LOVESTREAM Festival and 28,500 at Grape Festival.

At LOVESTREAM and Grape, customers inserted eligible reusable cups into automated stations and used a payment card or supported contactless device to receive their deposits directly into their accounts. The system does not require an app or user registration. Smart DRS said its technology can reduce manual cup handling and cash-based refunds for operators while providing data on transaction volumes and peak return periods. The company has also installed two stations at Tyrsak, a riverside destination in Bratislava, where they have averaged 618 cup returns per day since mid-July.

The company is now preparing to expand the technology beyond reusable containers. Smart DRS said its system is designed to handle single-use deposit-return programs and can either supplement conventional reverse vending machines or operate as a separate collection option. The company expects its first deployment for single-use containers in September. Smart DRS Limited is a spin-off of Sensoneo, a provider of smart waste-management technology and IT systems for deposit-return programs.