PRESS RELEASE: Use of Redemption Centers During COVID-19

On July 24, Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds discontinued the temporary exemption allowing dealers to temporarily refuse bottle and can redemption at their businesses due to concerns over the spread of the coronavirus. 

Since then, Fareway Stores has stated they will not accept cans and bottles at this time, citing that to do so would be in conflict with other aspects of the Governor’s public health proclamation. The Iowa Grocery Industry Association issued a public statement asking for consumers to return bottles and cans directly to redemption centers rather than at their stores. 

FUELIowa, as the voice of hundreds of fuel retailers across Iowa, echo’s the call for consumers to avoid returning cans and bottles to convenience stores. The protection of our workers, customers and public at large remains our paramount concern.  As such, we respectfully encourage our membership to redirect their customers to the nearest redemption center. FUELIowa has provided a map listing the locations of statewide redemption centers here.

Some of our members may choose to accept the cans and bottles, but all members strongly urge consumers to avoid bringing these potentially contaminated bottles and cans to convenience and grocery stores.

FUELIowa staff will continue to work with the Office of the Governor, the Iowa Legislature and stakeholders to seek a comprehensive review of the Iowa “Bottle Bill” to “Keep Iowa Beautiful”.