Co-op and Podback have expanded the coffee pod recycling scheme to over 200 stores following the successful trial at 30 locations.

This permanent move comes after a 30-store trial which was first launched in November 2025, as part of the convenience retailer’s commitment to sustainable practices.

The first trial saw eight tonnes of pods returned by shoppers in Co-op’s communities, which is the equivalent of over 500,000 used pods.

As part of the scheme, Podback accepts plastic and aluminium beverage pods sold by its member brands which can be recycled by customers at over 1500 drop-off points across the UK.

The sustainability company then takes it to UK-based reprocessors, and coffee grounds are transformed into renewable energy and soil improvers for agriculture.

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Scott McHarg, head of sustainability, Co-op, said: “We’re focused 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 executive director Rick Hindley, said: “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.”

Podback has partnered with other major retailers, including Morrisons and Asda, to push towards reducing waste in consumer packaging.