Comprehensive Guide to Returning Empties at The Beer Store in Ontario
If you frequently visit The Beer Store to return your empty alcoholic containers, understanding the proper procedures can significantly streamline the process and enhance your experience. This guide, informed by the insights of a long-time employee, offers practical tips and clarifications to help you and staff manage empties efficiently. Remember, each store may have its unique protocols, so when in doubt, ask staff for assistance.
Overview of Beer Container Returns
Acceptance Policy
The Beer Store accepts all alcoholic beverage containers with a deposit. Look for the deposit amount printed on the label or packaging to determine eligibility.
Excluded Items
Non-alcoholic beverages, such as alcohol-free beers (e.g., Corona 0%, Bud 0%) and soda, are not accepted despite having deposits.
Deposit Pricing Structure
- Items under 101 milliliters (ml): No deposit
- Items between 101 ml and 630 ml: 10-cent deposit
- Items over 630 ml: 20-cent deposit (cans are generally 10 cents unless over 1 liter, then 20 cents)
Important Tips for Customers
- During busy periods or staff shortages, employees may be occupied with other tasks, so patience is appreciated.
- Full bins need to be emptied before new empties can be added.
- For large quantities suitable for a “bottle drive,” always call ahead to coordinate drop-off times and availability, as restrictions may apply.
- For small returns, do not stress over extensive sorting—using fewer bins is preferable to multiple small ones.
Handling Glass Bottles
Sorting and Presentation
- Separate glass bottles by color: categorize into colored (green, blue, black, brown, frosted/tinted) and clear (white or see-through bottles like Corona).
- When unsure, default to the colored bin.
- Always stand bottles upright in their designated bins; lying bottles are difficult to count and sort.
Packaging Recommendations
Whenever possible, return bottles in their original packaging—such as 12, 15, 24, or 28-pack cases for bottles, or 6, 12, or 15-pack for liquor bottles—to facilitate easier processing.
Packaging notes:
- Avoid taping boxes shut, as employees need to manually break down the containers.
- Keep boxes intact or loosely assembled to minimize handling time.
Returning Cans
Best Practices
- Place cans in a sealed clear bag for quick processing.
- Do not mix other items, like bottles or trash, in the same bag.
- For faster processing, bring cans in flat packs of 24 where possible.
- Use dedicated can bins if available; some stores require cans to stand upright in black bins for safety and accuracy.
- Always rinse cans to prevent lingering residue or odors.
- Avoid including cigarette butts or other trash.
Managing Plastic Containers and Tetra Packs
- Deposit all plastic bottles (beer, wine, liquor) together in a single black bin, regardless of size or color.
- Tetra Pak containers and wine bags are typically sorted into their own black bin and are easy to count when grouped.
Keg Returns
- The Beer Store accepts kegs purchased or ordered directly through them.
- Kegs from external or smaller breweries may not be returnable.
- To confirm, contact your local store before bringing a keg.
Additional Tips for a Smooth Return
- Organize your empties before arriving to speed up the process.
- Remain courteous to staff, especially when busy—they are often balancing multiple tasks.
- When unsure about sorting or procedure, politely ask staff for guidance; most are eager to assist.
- Calling ahead for large quantities helps prevent delays and ensures proper handling.
- Remember that some tasks, like sorting or counting, are part of the staff’s responsibilities, but your cooperation makes their job easier.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Is The Beer Store a government-run operation?
No. The Beer Store operates as a private entity under Brewers Retail Inc., owned by a consortium of international brewing companies. Despite common misconceptions, it is not a government agency. -
Are employee wages high?
Employee wages generally align with minimum wage standards, with some variations depending on position and tenure. Entry-level roles often start at or near minimum wage. -
Do staff appreciate sorting efforts?
Absolutely. Sorting empties—such as separating cans from bottles and categorizing glass by color—significantly improves processing speed, especially during busy periods. -
Can I return empties just before closing?
For small quantities, this may be acceptable. However, for large returns, it’s advisable to arrive earlier to avoid delays, as processing large quantities takes more time. -
Why sort bottles?
While staff handle the actual sorting, customers’ efforts to pre-sort reduce processing time and improve safety. Proper sorting also complies with regulations and keeps the process efficient. -
Unsure where an item belongs?
Ask staff—they’re happy to help you sort correctly and appreciate your effort to participate. -
Why is sorting emphasized now when it wasn’t before?
Procedures may vary among staff and stores based on workload and policies. Consistent sorting helps everyone—staff, customers, and the environment. -
How much empties do stores handle daily?
Volume fluctuates, but busy locations can process thousands of bottles and tens of thousands of cans daily. -
Are flattened cans or bottles acceptable?
Yes, as long as you can accurately count or the container is manageable for handling. -
How are refunds issued?
Refunds can be processed via cash, debit, credit, or credited to a gift card—just ask the staff for your preferred payment method.
Conclusion
Returning empties at The Beer Store need not be a cumbersome task. With a little organization and awareness of proper sorting practices, your experience can be both quick and hassle-free. Remember to be courteous, ask questions when needed, and call ahead for large returns. Your cooperation not only speeds the process but also supports the staff in providing excellent service.
For further tips or store-specific procedures, don’t hesitate to speak with your local store staff. Happy recycling!