Throughout the summer, visitors to Tyršák in Bratislava could return their used cups through Smart DRS stations and receive their deposit directly to a payment card, without waiting for bar staff, downloading an app or registering an account. From mid-July, two stations became part of the riverside venue’s regular operations, serving visitors during daytime activities and evening gatherings. The available data from June to September 2026 recorded 42,528 reusable cup returns.
Cup Return Stations as Part of the Summer Venue
Tyršák combines relaxation by the Danube with food, drinks and cultural programming. Visitors arrive at different times and return their cups depending on how long they stay. Two Smart DRS stations provided a place to return cups without requiring bar staff to handle each deposit refund.
The deployment built on June’s Forbes Business Fest and continued as part of regular summer operations. The same return process was available to visitors enjoying afternoon refreshments or spending an evening at the venue.
Summer Season Results in Numbers
The available Smart DRS data recorded:
- 42,528 reusable cups returned
- 21,403 collection sessions
- 1,216 cups returned on the busiest day, 22 July
- Peak return activity around 21:00
The results cover 4 June–6 July and 16 July–20 September 2026, including the deployment at Forbes Business Fest on 4 June. Data for 7–15 July was not available.
Insights into Station Usage
Automated returns also provided digital data on the number of cups accepted and collection sessions. This gave the venue operator an overview of system usage throughout the season and periods of peak activity. These insights can help with planning cup collection and preparing for the next season.
What Summer Operations at Tyršák Revealed
How can return stations be planned for regular operations and busier days? Explore the results and operational insights from Tyršák in the case study Automated Reusable Cup Returns in Long-Term Venue Operations.
Planning a similar solution for your venue? Explore Smart DRS return stations or contact our team.
