At ICA Maxi Universitet in Örebro, recycling is not just a service, it’s a system designed to perform at scale.
Since 2019, the store has steadily expanded its reverse vending capacity with Envipco’s Quantum outdoor units, building what is now known as a “Quantum street”—a high-capacity recycling setup that handles some of the largest volumes in the country.
A phased approach to growth
The journey began in August 2019 with the installation of two Quantum outdoor machines. As demand increased and customer participation grew, the store continued to invest in additional capacity:
- May 2021: one additional Quantum outdoor unit installed
- September 2025: a fourth Quantum outdoor unit added
This step-by-step expansion reflects a practical approach: scale infrastructure in line with real usage and customer needs.
“We didn’t want to overinvest from the start. We added capacity as our customers used the system more. Today, it handles the volume without queues, and that’s what matters.”
Patrik Persson, Store Owner, ICA Maxi Universitet
High performance in everyday operation
Today, ICA Maxi Universitet processes approximately 16 million containers per year through its Quantum installation.
In total, the system has collected over 76 million containers—a clear indication of both strong consumer engagement and reliable system performance.
This makes the store’s setup the highest-performing individual location in Sweden outside border areas, where volumes are typically higher due to cross-border returns.
“What we’re seeing in Örebro is exactly where the market is heading, retailers building infrastructure that scales with real demand. This is not about adding machines, it’s about building systems that perform under pressure.”
Lars Haglöf, Sales Director Europe, Envipco
Designed for participation
Handling this level of volume requires more than capacity—it requires a system that works smoothly for users.
Envipco’s Quantum solution supports this through:
- Bulk-feed functionality for faster returns
- High-speed processing to reduce waiting times
- Outdoor-ready design for accessibility and convenience
The result is a recycling experience that encourages repeat use and supports consistent participation.
A scalable model for retailers
The success at ICA Maxi Universitet shows what is possible when infrastructure keeps pace with demand.
Rather than overbuilding from the start, the store expanded its system over time—aligning investment with actual return volumes. This approach reduces risk while ensuring capacity is available when needed.
For retailers preparing for or scaling Deposit Return Systems, it offers a clear takeaway:
start with what works, and grow with your customers.
Making recycling easier for everyone
At its core, this success story is about making recycling simple and accessible—even at very high volumes.
By combining the right technology with a practical rollout strategy, ICA Maxi Universitet has created a system that delivers for both customers and operations.
And with millions of containers returned each year, the impact is tangible—for the store, for the system, and for the circular economy.
Ready to scale with demand?
Contact us: https://www.envipco.com/contact
