At CosmeticBusiness 2026, Corpack, together with Trovr, celebrated the launch of an automatic return machine for cosmetics packaging. The system is designed to collect empty packaging in a more targeted manner and to directly involve consumers in the return process at the point of sale.

A great deal of cosmetics packaging still ends up in general waste and is incinerated, rather than being channelled into appropriate recycling streams. This is precisely where the new automatic return machine comes in, which Corpack, in collaboration with Trovr, unveiled for the first time at CosmeticBusiness 2026.

The machine, called Qube, accepts various types of cosmetic packaging – from bottles, tubes and jars to decorative cosmetics. Consumers can return their cosmetic packaging to the machine and receive a voucher in return, for example for a cash refund or a loyalty reward.

From a deposit bottle return system to a solution for cosmetic packaging

Partner Trovr originally developed the machine for the return of deposit bottles. There are currently more than 100 such stations across Europe. Corpack and Trovr have now jointly adapted the technology for use with cosmetic products.

The key difference compared to many fixed return machines is that the station is mobile and can be flexibly positioned within retail outlets. Product data, participating brands and reward schemes can be customised via the software. “Product recognition currently takes place via barcode or QR code. Brands and products can be registered in the underlying database. This allows the system to be used for different brands, product groups and return models,” explains Christopher Corbeil, Project Manager at corpack GmbH.

A flexible building block for circular economy concepts

Compared with existing models for the reuse and return of packaging in Germany, the approach taken by Corpack and Trovr is more open. The machine can accommodate different packaging forms and product categories and is not strictly limited to a single packaging format. This means it could be of interest for both recycling concepts and potential reuse approaches.

“For brands, the system offers the opportunity to link the return of packaging and packaging development more closely. Corpack can help to design the packaging so that it is suitable for corresponding return or circular models. For example, through recyclable materials, appropriate labelling or a design that facilitates subsequent sorting and further processing,” says Christopher Corbeil.

According to Corpack, initial discussions have already taken place with customers for whom the use of the automatic return machine is a possibility.

Source: Corpack