Sistema Volta (depósito de embalagens): guia prático para retalho e restauração
Sustainability

Volta system (packaging deposit): practical guide for retailers and restaurants

15 de May, 2026

If you have a retail or catering business, you need to be aware of the new rules for collecting, invoicing and managing packaging returns. In April 2026, Portugal implemented the deposit and refund system for drinks packaging, known as the “Volta system“, the aim of which is to give plastic bottles and cans a new lease of life.

This system allows consumers to return packaging to Pontos Volta and recover the deposit paid at the time of purchase, encouraging recycling and promoting more responsible consumption.

How does the “Volta” system work?

Every time you buy a covered drink (identified with the “V” symbol in the Volta system), the consumer pays an additional deposit of 0.10€ per container. This amount is returned when the empty container is handed in at an authorized point.

Refunds can be made via:

  • Voucher (convertible into cash or discount);
  • Loyalty card;
  • Donation.

Packages can be returned at different points, regardless of where they were bought. However, if the consumer opts for a discount voucher, its use may depend on the rules of the establishment where it is issued.

The impact on retail

For food retailers, the “Volta” system implies new responsibilities, but also new opportunities.

The establishments are now:

  • Charge the deposit of €0.10, duly itemized on the invoice;
  • Accept returns (where applicable) and refund the customer;
  • Adapting billing systems and operational processes.

On the other hand, joining the system can:

  • Increase the flow of customers returning to return packaging;
  • Generate additional purchases at the time of return;
  • Reinforcing the positioning of the business as a more sustainable option.

What about restaurants? The rules are different

In the HORECA sector (hotels, restaurants and cafés), the application of the system depends on the time of payment and the destination of the package.

Consumption on site (payment at the end)

  • No deposit is charged ;
  • Generate additional purchases at the time of return;
  • Reinforcing the positioning of the business as a more sustainable option.

Takeaway, delivery or prepayment

  • The €0.10 deposit must be charged to the customer;
  • The amount must be itemized on the invoice;
  • The packaging leaves the store and can be returned by the consumer.

There is also an important rule: establishments are only obliged to accept the return of packaging that has been purchased on the premises, and may ask for proof of purchase.

What changes in the operation of establishments?

The implementation of the “Volta” system involves some practical adaptations:

  • Updating menus and prices (where applicable);
  • Adjustments to invoicing systems;
  • Management of returned packaging;
  • Greater operational control.

Despite the initial effort, this is also an opportunity to modernize processes and align the business with more sustainable practices.

A new consumption cycle

The “Volta” system reinforces a more circular consumption logic, in which each package takes on a new life.

For retailers and restaurants, the challenge lies in adapting, but also in the opportunity to strengthen the relationship with customers and actively contribute to a more sustainable economy.

Back