Biedronka and Lidl report massive scale in Poland's deposit return system

Major Polish retailers, including Biedronka and Lidl, are reporting massive scale in the country's deposit return system, which has been operational since October 2025. Biedronka has collected over 1.4 billion items, while Lidl has surpassed 1 billion returns, consisting of plastic bottles and metal cans.

To improve customer convenience, Biedronka is extending the validity of deposit vouchers from 30 days to 120 days, effective September 21. Other retailers are also adjusting their terms, with Lidl offering 100 days and Netto and Stokrotka offering 90 days. Some chains, such as Auchan and Dino, have introduced unlimited-term vouchers.

Individual return records have reached significant levels; one Biedronka customer received a voucher worth over 750 PLN after returning 1,503 items. However, the system's impact on local waste management is being noted, with some municipalities in Poland facing increased costs due to the reduction in recyclable waste collected through standard municipal streams.