Coffee pod recycling points are expanding to more than 200 Co-op stores following the success of a trial between the leading convenience retailer and Podback, the coffee pod recycling service.
The roll-out of the expanded trial is now underway with dedicated Podback recycling points being installed in Co-op stores located across the south-west of England and South Wales to bring quick and convenient coffee pod recycling to more local communities.
The partnership began with a 30-store trial, launched in November 2025, including Co-op’s ‘sustainability showcase stores’ – stores such as Co-op’s new store in Attleborough, Norfolk which is designed to test and demonstrate new ideas, technologies and solutions that can reduce environmental impact, improve energy efficiency and further support Co-op’s ongoing commitment to responsible retailing.
The initial 30-store trial saw eight tonnes of pods returned by residents in Co-op’s communities. equivalent to over 500,000 used pods.
Commenting on the expansion of the partnership, Podback Executive Director Rick Hindley, said:
“This is another very positive step for Podback as we expand our nationwide drop-off network, and give more people more ways to recycle coffee pods locally. We’re confident that our partnership with Co-op stores in local high streets and communities is going to make a significant positive contribution to our ongoing work to provide simple and convenient ways to recycle coffee pods. We’re excited to see how our relationship with Co-op continues to develop.”
Scott McHarg, Head of Sustainability, Co-op, said:
“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.”
Podback accepts plastic and aluminium beverage pods sold by its member brands, which customers can recycle at more than 1500 drop-off points across the UK. Through Podback plastic and aluminium are recovered and recycled by UK-based reprocessors and coffee grounds are transformed into renewable energy (biogas) and soil improver for agriculture.