Lidl Trials Scheme To Pay Shoppers For Returning Used Plastic Bottles

• Lidl introduces a recycling initiative, rewarding customers for returning plastic bottles and cans.
• Participants receive 5p per returned item, with the option to convert rewards into Lidl vouchers or donate to charity.
• The trial begins in 21 Glasgow stores, aiming to recycle 10.5 tonnes of material monthly.

Lidl has taken a significant step towards sustainability by launching a payment scheme for customers who recycle plastic bottles and cans. The supermarket giant, with over 960 outlets across the UK, is set to reward its shoppers with 5p for every item they return using specially installed vending machines in-store.

This innovative scheme allows customers to either redeem their accumulated points through vouchers applicable in Lidl or contribute to the STV Children’s Appeal charity. Importantly, there is no ceiling on the amount one can earn through this recycling effort.

Beginning its journey in Glasgow, Lidl has chosen 21 stores for this pioneering trial. The initiative is not only a boon for customers but also a stride towards significant environmental impact, with the potential to recycle 10.5 tonnes of plastic and aluminum each month.

Richard Bourns, Lidl GB's chief commercial officer, highlighted the trial as a "win-win" situation for both the shoppers and the company. He underscored Lidl's commitment to sustainability, noting that over 95% of Lidl's own-brand packaging is now recyclable, reusable, or refillable.

The list of participating stores spans across Glasgow, including notable locations like Maryhill, Duke Street, and Bearsden, among others. This recycling program accepts clean, uncrushed plastic bottles and cans, specifically those made from PET plastic or aluminum, featuring a readable barcode and sized between 100ml and three litres.

This initiative marks a pioneering moment for UK supermarkets, with Lidl leading the charge in implementing such a scheme city-wide. While Tesco and Aldi have previously conducted similar trials, Lidl's comprehensive approach sets a new benchmark.

The move comes as part of a broader environmental strategy among supermarkets to reduce waste. Efforts include the unified adoption of single-colour milk caps and the introduction of more sustainable packaging solutions, such as cardboard punnets for mushrooms and the removal of plastic trays from certain produce, underscoring the industry's commitment to environmental stewardship.

Sam Walker at The Sun highlighted the innovative aspects of Lidl's recycling trial and its potential to serve as a model for supermarkets nationwide.

Tom Church, Co-Founder of LatestDeals.co.uk, commented, "Lidl's new recycling scheme is a brilliant example of how supermarkets can engage customers in sustainability efforts. Not only does it offer a tangible reward for recycling, but it also underscores the importance of reducing waste and supports charitable causes. It's a commendable move that hopefully inspires more such initiatives."