TOMRA Collection has designed its TOMRA S2 Rugged Plus reverse vending machine for outdoor use in all weather conditions, aspiring to save space on shop floors while maintaining a smooth consumer experience.
While return points have typically installed their reverse vending machines indoors, TOMRA’s new solution is intended to help retailers save floor space without sacrificing consumer convenience.
The free-standing TOMRA S2 Rugged Plus accepts PET bottles, cans, and reusable glass bottles. An integrated glass crusher configuration is also available for single-use bottles.
Its steel cabinets and a powder-coated, galvanized sheet are expected to withstand the elements (including snow and rain) while maintaining the machine’s appearance for years. Its bright and high-visibility touchscreen is also said to maintain readability in direct sunlight.
Powered by TOMRA Flow Technology, the machine is said to minimize wait times with a ‘continuous, secure, and rapid flow’. While its modular design is anticipated to expand functionality – for example, retailers can add a SoftDrop module for reusable glass bottles, or an extra storage module for extra storage space – its high-capacity bins take two 1/1 EU pallets to reduce the need for staff intervention.
TOMRA S2 Rugged Plus builds on the previous TOMRA S1 Rugged, boosting its capacity and flexibility.
“What makes TOMRA S2 Rugged Plus stand out is not only its durable construction but also its future-proof design,” commented Brynjar Fonneløp, head of Product Unit at TOMRA Collection.
“We know how important it is for retailers to have a robust outdoor solution that can manage all packaging types in a deposit return system. TOMRA S2 Rugged Plus provides a scalable solution as recycling needs evolve.
“This new outdoor solution helps retailers and other return points to streamline operations while providing customers with a fast, seamless and reliable return experience. TOMRA S2 Rugged Plus provides a solution that combines strength, capacity and modular design.”
The machine made its debut on the Polish market after Poland’s deposit return scheme launched on 1st October.
Earlier this year, TOMRA Reuse launched a return vending machine, Reuse Collection Point, to serve as a fully integrated platform for handling reusable takeaway containers from collection to redistribution. It uses serialized QR codes to track packaging through the value chain.
The company also introduced reverse vending machines in the town of Sangüesa in Navarra, Spain, as part of a government trial to prepare for a national deposit return scheme in November 2026. The insights were expected to help fine-tune the rollout of DRS technology across the country, with over ten local businesses participating in the pilot.
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