SuperMax Rolls Out Recycling Kiosks

SuperMax, a supermarket chain in Puerto Rico, is piloting REMAG, a program that rewards consumers with coupons for recycling newspapers, magazines and catalogs at interactive kiosks, at three store locations. The three-month pilot, which launched Aug. 22, addresses the rising demand for recycling and the lack of accessible recycling alternatives on the island.

“In SuperMax, we’re always looking for ways to help our community as well as expand the services and additional value we offer in our stores,” said José Revuelta, president of the San Juan-based grocer. “With the REMAG program we’re continuing to do just that, along with demonstrating our environmental commitment, which customers have been seeing through our recent image changes such as more efficient lighting and refrigeration systems.”

REMAG provides consumers with instant coupons from their choice of 15 product categories when they recycle newspapers, magazines or catalogs at one of the two designated interactive kiosks in participating stores. There are currently more than $120 worth of savings in 150-plus coupons. Customers also give to their favorite charities or nonprofit organization, which receive a donation for each printed coupon paid for by REMAG.

“We’re confident the program will be a success, and are pleased that we can benefit local nonprofit organizations with the donations they need to continue their labor of love,” noted Blake Patterson, EVP at Denver-based REMAG. “This is a fundamental part of REMAG`s commitment.”

Puerto Rico nonprofit organizations taking part in the program include The Humane Society of Puerto Rico, SER de Puerto Rico, Estuario de la Bahía de San Juan, Hogares Teresa Toda, Sacred Heart University and Sierra Club. REMAG has garnered support in the environmental and recycling area from such organizations as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Solid Waste Authority, Green America and Puerto Rico Recycling Partnership, with IFCO Recycling in Puerto Rico handling the material for the SuperMax pilot.

Among the CPG companies backing the program are Clorox, Colgate/Palmolive, General Mills, Healthy Choice, Kellogg Co., Kraft Foods, Nestlé, PepsiCo, Procter & Gamble and Unilever.