In Europe, we are attaching increasing importance to environmental protection, recycling and the conscious use of natural resources. The European Union and member states are taking concrete steps to minimize the impact of plastics on the environment. One such solution is the deposit system, which will soon, as of the beginning of October 2025, also come into effect in Poland. For many companies, this is not only a challenge, but also an opportunity – to implement environmentally conscious measures, as well as to promote the brand through the company’s bottles, cups and merch among their employees and customers.
What is the bail system and when will it come into effect in Poland?
According to the Ministry of Climate and Environment, the deposit system is a tool to promote recycling and reuse of packaging. In Poland, the mechanism will officially start operating on October 1, 2025, although some stores already have vending machines where plastic bottles or metal cans can be returned. As of that date, beverages will be available in stores in packages covered by the system, i.e. those with a clear deposit sign along with the deposit amount.
In practice, this means that when you buy a beverage in a package covered by the system, you will pay an additional deposit, which you will get back when you return the empty package. The system will operate both in stores and special vending machines that accept packages.
Why is the European Union introducing a bail system?
The introduction of the deposit system is a direct result of EU regulations. According to Directive (EU) 2019/904 of the European Parliament and the Council of June 5, 2019, member states are required to achieve certain levels of separate collection of waste from single-use products:
- By 2025 – 77% of waste by weight of the amount marketed in a given year is to be collected,
- By 2029 – the level is expected to be as high as 90%.
These are ambitious goals that require commitment from both consumers and producers. The deposit system is designed to encourage end users to return packaging through a financial incentive – the deposit.
Which packages will be covered by the deposit system?
According to information from the website of the Ministry of Climate and Environment, the deposit system in Poland will apply to the following packages:
- Plastic bottles up to 3 liters – deposit refund: 50 cents.
- Metal cans up to 1 liter – deposit return: 50 cents.
- Reusable glass bottles up to 1.5 liters – deposit return: 1 zloty.
Only products bearing the bail system mark will be eligible for return. This means that packaging without the symbol will not be covered by the system, and therefore no deposit will be recovered for it.
Reusable bottles as an alternative to storing returnable bottles
With the upcoming changes, it’s worth thinking now about how to reduce the amount of packaging covered by the deposit system. One solution is to use reusable bottles and cups – especially since tap water in Poland is drinkable in most cities.
Instead of buying more drinks in plastic bottles or cans, it is better to fill water bottles yourself. This saves time, money and – above all – reduces waste. What’s more, you don’t have to store and carry bottles with you to return, and then still spend time on those returns to get your deposit back.
Corporate bottles and mugs – a way to eco-promote and support change
The upcoming bail-in system is a great opportunity to use company merch to promote eco-friendly attitudes. Corporate bottles and reusable cups can become an important part of your company’s corporate culture and CSR.
Why bet on corporate gadgets, such as bottles with the company logo?
- They are practical and enjoy daily use.
- Support employees’ green lifestyles.
- Build a consistent image of a socially responsible brand.
- They encourage people to avoid disposable packaging.
- Strengthen corporate identity and employee loyalty.
Best suggestions for corporate bottles and mugs from MerchUp
If you’re looking for products that will support your environmental strategy and promote your brand at the same time, it’s worth checking out our offerings. After all, we focus on quality, style and functionality! Here are some suggestions from the logo mugs and bottles category:
Reusable cup made of eco plastic
Ideal as a reusable mug in the office, at conferences, events or in a welcome pack. It can be branded with your company logo using pad printing technique. Such a corporate gadget not only promotes the brand, but also supports ecological attitudes!
Mug Circular
A small, handy and completely eco-friendly mug, as it was made from half recycled materials. Great as a company logo mug for everyday use. With it you can show that your company is committed to recycling and reducing trash.
Stefen Bidon
Recycled steel company bottle ideal for active people – for meetings, office, workout. Laser or digital marking will make you put your logo on it aesthetically and grassily. It’s a product in line with the ecological trend and values of wislu companies.
Bottle with a cork base
Aesthetically pleasing, sturdy and practical – a good choice as a company logo bottle for a gift, for daily use at work or travel. What’s more, it’s our bestseller! Maintains the temperature of beverages, and the cork base adds to the natural character of the product
Bail-in system – do companies need to be afraid? On the contrary!
The changes brought by the bail system could be the beginning of a new chapter for many companies – a greener and more responsible one. By using corporate bottles, reusable cups and other corporate gadgets, you will not only minimize the amount of packaging in circulation, but also show your employees, customers and partners that you are acting consciously.
You don’t have to wait until October 2025 to start making changes. You can today:
- distribute water bottles and mugs with the company logo to employees,
organize educational campaigns internally,
invest in company merch that has practical and symbolic value, - Limit purchases in plastic packaging as part of corporate purchasing.
The deposit system being introduced in Poland is a step toward more sustainable resource management and reducing plastic in the environment. It’s also an opportunity for companies to implement their own eco-friendly measures – not just with regulation in mind, but out of concern for the planet. Swap single-use plastic for sustainable reusable bottles and cups by choosing corporate gadgets that have meaning and impact.
