Since the introduction of a deposit return system for single-use plastic bottles and metal cans in January 2025, INTERSPAR Austria has made it easy for customers to donate their deposit credit to local fire brigades directly while at the return machine. Just before International Volunteer Day on 5 December, INTERSPAR Austria Managing Director Johannes Holzleitner handed over a €102,317 donation to the Austrian Federal Fire Brigade Association. This includes an additional €5,000 donation from INTERSPAR Austria. These funds will support fire departments in the communities around the respective stores.

The partnership between INTERSPAR Austria and the Austrian Federal Fire Brigade Association began in early 2025. The initiative shows how easy it is to make a big impact with a small gesture. Customers can simply return their deposit bottles and cans, choose the donation option on the screen, and confirm. The deposit slip then goes straight to the local fire brigades. This cooperation will continue in 2026.

INTERSPAR Austria sees its hypermarkets as more than just places to shop – they are part of the community and a platform for social engagement. Donating deposit receipts is a clear sign of this connection. Together, INTERSPAR Austria and its customers strengthen social ties and make a positive difference in their region.

“My sincere thanks go to our customers, whose contributions made this donation possible. We want to make a difference right where our INTERSPAR hypermarkets are located – and what could be more natural than supporting the valuable work of the fire brigades in our neighbourhood? That is why we will continue our cooperation with the Austrian Federal Fire Brigade Association in 2026,” said Johannes Holzleitner, INTERSPAR Austria Managing Director.

New deposit system in Austria

On 1 January 2025, Austria introduced a deposit system for single-use plastic bottles and metal cans (0.1-3 litres). This complements the existing reusable deposit system and ensures environmentally friendly disposal of packaging. Items such as milk and syrup are excluded, and all eligible packaging will carry a special one-way deposit logo.

Source: SPAR Austria

Read more news from SPAR Austria.

About SPAR Austria

The origins of the SPAR brand in Austria date back to 1954. The current SPAR AG was created in 1970 when the original founding families joined other regional wholesalers to form SPAR Austria AG, a 100% privately owned Austrian company. Company-owned stores operate throughout the country in the multi-format retail strategy developed since the 1960’s whilst independent retailers operate under sub-license from SPAR Austria and continue building the brand’s presence.