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    Where can you return bottles and cans in Finland?

    Simple rules for returning deposit packages.

    Answered at: Checked at:

    Short answer

    Taloustaito explains that Alko bottles can be returned to any return machine, and that shops, kiosks and petrol stations have an obligation, in proportion to their sales, to accept deposit packages and pay the deposit, even if they have no machine. Machines identify the deposit from the barcode and the package's shape, so the package must be whole and empty. Non-deposit cans, for example from abroad, can also be put in the machine for recycling.

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    Why

    1. Taloustaito says Alko bottles go in any machine.
    2. Taloustaito says sellers must accept packages in proportion to their sales.
    3. Taloustaito says machines also take non-deposit cans.

    Details

    Some store-brand plastic bottles with their own return system give the deposit only at that chain's machines.

    Tip

    Do not take sacks of bottles to a small kiosk. Use a supermarket machine for large amounts.

    What may differ

    Around New Year machines are at their busiest, so expect queues.

    Common misconception

    You can only return a bottle to the shop where you bought it.

    What actually happens

    Deposit packages with the Palpa mark can be returned to any machine.

    People also ask

    • How much is the bottle deposit in Finland?
    • How many bottles do Finns return?
    • Are shops open on Sundays in Finland?

    Sources

    This answer is for reference only. Opening hours, prices and services change, so check the official sources before you go.

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