Co-op expands recycling scheme after collecting more than 500,000 coffee pods

Co-op and Podback are expanding their coffee pod recycling scheme to more than 200 stores following an initial 30-store trial.

Dedicated Podback recycling points are being installed at Co-op stores across the south-west of England and South Wales, allowing customers to return used plastic and aluminium beverage pods for recycling.

The partnership began with a trial across 30 Co-op stores in November 2025, including a number of the retailer’s ‘sustainability showcase stores’, which are used to test technologies and initiatives aimed at reducing environmental impact and improving energy efficiency.

According to the companies, eight tonnes of used coffee pods were collected during the first six months of the trial, equivalent to more than 500,000 pods.

Following the trial, the expanded roll-out is now underway across more than 200 Co-op locations.

We’re focussed on delivering social value to our members, customers and communities on the issues they care about, and support them in making sustainable choices and reducing their environmental impact. Our stores are created to be more than just a shop, with a range of added services to make everyday life easier for consumers. We’re delighted to see the Podback trial succeed and grow, it provides an easy and convenient way for communities to make small changes to their everyday life that can create a positive and lasting impact for our planet and natural environment.

Scott McHarg, Head of Sustainability, Co-op.

Podback accepts plastic and aluminium beverage pods from its member brands. The service currently operates more than 1,500 drop-off points across the UK.

Pods collected through the scheme are sent to UK-based reprocessors, where the plastic and aluminium are separated and recovered for recycling. Used coffee grounds are also separated and processed to produce biogas and soil improver for agricultural use.

Consumers can locate participating collection points through Podback’s online recycling map.