Tomra launches super-compact three-material reverse vending machine

Global reverse vending leader Tomra Collection announced the launch of Tomra M1, the smallest reverse vending machine (RVM) on the market that can recognize, sort and store glass, plastic and aluminum beverage containers all in one machine, according to the announcement. The solution is designed for convenience stores and small supermarkets in deposit return systems covering multiple drink container materials and types.

Tomra M1 requires 0.62 square meters of floor space, so smaller retailers can participate in deposit return systems and contribute to recycling. The standalone RVM measures 98 cm wide, 63 cm deep, and stands at 165 cm tall. It can store up to 270 PET bottles, 550 cans, and 80 (uncrushed) glass bottles.

Deposit return systems add a deposit on top of the price of a beverage, which is refunded to the consumer when they return the empty container for recycling. This incentivizes the return of containers, which drives higher collection rates and combats litter. Deposit return systems often include “return-to-retail” legislation that requires stores selling beverages to also collect the containers for recycling after use.

“Tomra M1 makes recycling possible in every store. A key challenge we heard from small retailers in new markets was a lack of space for a reverse vending machine. However, we believe that small retailers who sell a higher volume of drinks could see benefits to their store efficiency and customer experience from automating container returns, so the Tomra M1 was born,” Lars Andersen, product manager for Tomra M1, said in the announcement. “This latest reverse vending machine makes it easier for small and convenience stores to offer container return points for all of their shoppers and contribute to positive environmental outcomes and a healthier planet. We have been excited to collaborate with retailers to develop Tomra M1 specifically for their needs."

Tomra M1 also features 360-degree instant container recognition technology with TOMRA’s Flow technology for quicker, more efficient returns. The Tomra M1 is fully compatible with Tomra's portfolio of digital solutions to help stores manage their reverse vending machines more efficiently and improve uptime.

Tomra M1 is also Tomra's first machine in the Flow series to be “plug and play,” meaning that it works with standard electricity and single-phased power.