Biznes Fakty
Deposit system. Leroy Merlin stops selling these drinks

Leroy Merlin has opted to cease the sale of bottled beverages and will not engage in the deposit-refund initiative, as stated by Jacek Hutyra from Leroy Merlin to tvn24.pl. He emphasized that the sale of beverages does not align with its „fundamental commercial activities.”
Commencing in October 2025, a deposit-refund mechanism will be implemented, and beverages will start to be available in packaging featuring a deposit-refund symbol. This system will encompass all retail establishments that offer products in deposit-labeled packaging—including pharmacies, drugstores, sports shops, and gas stations that carry these products.
The label will indicate whether the item is included in the deposit program. The deposit fees will be as follows:
- plastic bottles up to 3 liters – deposit: PLN 0.50,
- metal cans with a capacity of up to 1 liter – deposit: PLN 0.50,
- reusable glass bottles with a capacity of up to 1.5 liters – deposit: PLN 1.00.

Leroy Merlin withdraws from deposit system
According to Jacek Hutyra, the director of sustainability/ESG at Leroy Merlin, the chain has resolved to „cease the sale of bottled beverages and not partake in the deposit system” since it does not pertain to its „core commercial activities.”
„We offer bottled drinks in Leroy Merlin Polska stores, but they represent a minor part of our product range, introduced to provide refreshment for customers, particularly on warmer days. However, our locations are equipped with air conditioning, and we also provide free water in jugs on the sales floor, thus eliminating the need for additional bottled water sales for that purpose,” Hutyra clarified.
He continued: „Moreover, the presence of bottled beverages in our offerings would not yield any significant environmental impact. Therefore, we prefer to concentrate on environmental and climate initiatives that are closely linked to our business, such as enhancing the energy transition and developing Frugal Home solutions that allow customers to save money and lessen their environmental footprint. This way, we channel our time, energy, and resources into endeavors that can yield better business outcomes while also addressing greenhouse gas emissions.”
This marks the latest chain to declare its intention to stop selling drinks in deposit-returnable packaging. Rossmann made a similar announcement earlier.
Read more: The large chain is discontinuing the sale of a significant portion of its beverages
Leroy Merlin Polska presently operates 82 stores and employs 12,000 individuals. The chain provides a diverse assortment of products related to construction, interior design, renovation, and gardening. Other major DIY chains in the Polish market include Polskie Składy Budowlane, Castorama, Bricomarche, and Nomi.
The retail sector raises concerns
The Polish Organization of Trade and Distribution (POHiD) highlighted in a statement released on August 5th that the deposit-refund system is not prepared for implementation in its present form. The organization has reached out to Prime Minister Donald Tusk regarding this issue, posing specific inquiries about the correct interpretation and execution of the law. POHiD anticipates a detailed response from lawmakers that will „facilitate the system’s operation as smoothly as possible for the benefit of customers, the environment, and businesses.”
The appeal pointed out, among other things, the compulsory participation of non-food retailers. „Subjecting such stores as pharmacies, drugstores, and electronics/household appliance retailers to the system may result in the removal of beverages from their offerings,” the statement noted.
Deposit system. Packaging returns.
Packaging eligible for a deposit refund can be returned without a receipt. Locations where you can return such packaging and reclaim your deposit include all stores larger than 200 square meters that sell beverages in deposit-refund packaging.
Smaller businesses will be permitted to accept packaging but will not be obligated to do so. The exception applies to stores under 200 square meters that sell beverages in reusable glass bottles, primarily concerning beer. Such establishments will generally also accept packaging.
It is important to note that deposit vending machines, which do not need to be located within stores, will also serve as drop-off points for packaging bearing the deposit symbol. Furthermore, in collaboration with system operators, it will be feasible to establish temporary collection points during significant cultural or sporting events.
Previously, the decision to halt the sale of bottled beverages by Leroy Merlin was reported by the website wiadomoscihandlowe.pl.