Circular takeaway system introduced at historic open-air market in Munich

A large-scale reuse system for food and beverage packaging is being introduced at Viktualienmarkt, a historic open-air market in Munich, to reduce single-use waste in high-footfall urban environments.

The initiative forms part of the “ReMuc – Ois im Kreis” project, with Duni Group involved through its Relevo brand. The scheme is being implemented in collaboration with local partners across the market, which spans around 22,000 square metres, hosts approximately 130 vendors and attracts more than five million visitors each year.

Under the system, visitors can purchase food and drinks in reusable cups and bowls, which can be returned at multiple points across the site. Automated return machines are available around the clock, enabling users to receive deposit refunds digitally. The infrastructure has been designed to accommodate a high volume of returns, supporting everyday use without requiring additional steps for consumers or vendors.

Duni Group, via Relevo, provides the digital platform and return technology that underpin the system. The platform links vendors, return points and service providers, facilitating ordering, tracking, collection and cleaning of reusable packaging within a coordinated network.

Making reuse part of everyday life requires solutions that are both convenient and scalable. With Relevo’s platform, we enable a system that works across multiple vendors and touchpoints — making circularity accessible in a natural way for both consumers and businesses.

Nicklas Lauwell, Chief Officer, Food Packaging Solutions, Duni Group.

Reusable containers are supplied by RECUP, while local logistics and cleaning services support the circulation of packaging throughout the market. The aim is to create a continuous loop for packaging use and return within the city environment.

The project is scheduled to run over a five-year period and is intended to demonstrate how reuse systems can be integrated into busy public spaces such as markets and transport hubs. The initiative also reflects wider efforts to develop scalable approaches to reducing single-use packaging in urban foodservice settings.