The UOKiK has approved the creation of joint ventures by beverage producers to implement a deposit system aimed at reducing waste and promoting recycling, effective from January 1, 2025. Consumers will be required to pay a refundable deposit when purchasing beverages in plastic, glass, or metal containers.

In contrast to many countries with a single operator, Poland will have multiple operators formed by beverage producers or importers. These operators will be responsible for selective waste collection, transportation, and meeting recycling targets. Failure to meet these targets may result in additional fees for the producers and importers.

The first approval involves non-alcoholic beverage producers like Coca-Cola, Pepsi, and Red Bull, while the second approval is for beer producers including Carlsberg and Żywiec Group.

The UOKiK President emphasized the importance of maintaining recycling targets for beverage producers and ensuring that the creation of these joint ventures does not harm market competition. The thorough analysis concluded that the approvals will not restrict competition.

Aside from UOKiK's approval, new operators also require permission from the climate minister to operate the deposit system. Transactions involving businesses with significant turnovers must be reported to the antitrust authority.