Ekomon
BackCup machine for returning reusable cups and deposits at a festival

BackCup · return · deposit

BackCup: reusable cup return and deposit refund machine

At an event with reusable cups, the critical moment comes right at the end: when thousands of people want to return their cup and get their deposit back at the same time. BackCup is Ekomon's cup return and deposit refund machine, designed for festivals, concerts, community celebrations and large-scale events. It automates returns, eases bar staff workload, and helps you recover more cups.

Request a BackCup quote

Let us know the date, capacity, number of bars, and whether you prefer hire or purchase.

How the BackCup cup return machine works

  1. 1

    The attendee pays the deposit when receiving their cup, as in any deposit-return system.

  2. 2

    They insert the cup into BackCup when they no longer need it.

  3. 3

    The machine validates the cup and generates a unique QR code.

  4. 4

    They recover their deposit: the QR code is redeemed for the deposit amount. Attendees can also request a refund via the Ekomon website by entering their bank account details.

We are waiting for banks to enable bulk refunds via Bizum, an option that will make refunds even simpler.

A festival cup deposit system that works

A deposit is the most effective way to ensure reusable cups are returned: attendees pay a deposit for the cup and get it back upon return. The bottleneck usually lies in operations: refunding deposits at the bar ties up staff during peak times and lengthens queues.

With BackCup, returns move from the bar to an automated return point:

Reduced bar workload:

bar staff can focus on serving, not refunding deposits.

Faster returns:

attendees return their cups whenever they want, without queuing at the bar.

More cups recovered:

a clear, convenient return point encourages attendees to return their cup rather than leave it behind.

BackCup integrates with the other components of the system: the deposit clips identify cups with a deposit, while collection bins and cup return points complete the circuit.

Which cups does BackCup accept?

BackCup accepts all cup models in our catalogue, except the EKO90FES, because its rim diameter does not fit the machine. If you plan to use BackCup, we can recommend the most suitable model based on your event, drinks served and volume.

You can use it with cups you purchase and customise with your logo, or with hirecups, and complete the cycle with our washing service.

Hire or purchase of the BackCup machine

  • Daily hire: the practical choice for a festival or one-off event. You only have it for the days you need it.
  • Purchase: for organisers running multiple events a year, venues or brands wanting their own solution. Purchased machines can be customised: ask us about the options.

We will prepare a quote tailored to your dates, number of units and chosen option.

Events suited for BackCup

  • Music festivals and concerts
  • Community festivals and town celebrations
  • Sporting events
  • Trade fairs and corporate events
  • Venues and spaces with high cup turnover

More than a machine: the complete system

We have been manufacturing reusable cups since 1998. That is why BackCup is not a standalone piece: it is part of a system that includes festival cups, customisation, deposit management, hire and washing. A single supplier to ensure cups go out, come back and are reused.

Frequently asked questions about BackCup

What is BackCup?

It is Ekomon's cup return and deposit refund machine. Attendees insert their reusable cup, the machine validates it and generates a unique QR code that is redeemed for the deposit.

How do attendees get their deposit back?

By redeeming the unique QR code generated by the machine. They can also request a refund via the Ekomon website by entering their bank account details.

Can deposits be refunded via Bizum?

Not yet. We are waiting for banks to enable bulk refunds via Bizum.

Which cups does the machine accept?

All cup models in our catalogue, except the EKO90FES, due to its rim diameter.

Can the BackCup machine be hired?

Yes. It can be hired on a daily basis or purchased. If purchased, it can be customised.

Can I use BackCup with hire cups?

Yes. You can combine the machine with hire cups or with purchased and customised cups, provided they are compatible models.

Request a BackCup quote

Tell us the date, expected attendance, number of bars, and whether you prefer to hire or buy the machine. We will send you a quote within 24 working hours.

Request a quote

Let us know the date, capacity, bars and whether you prefer hire or purchase.