All from One Source: Centershop Relies on Interzero’s Integrated Circular Solutions
Deliveries, ongoing refurbishments, organisational challenges: opening a new store involves numerous hurdles for retailers. It is therefore crucial that waste disposal runs smoothly from day one. For discounter Centershop, which operates over 90 stores in Germany and expanded to Austria in 2025, this was far from straightforward. The company offers an extensive product range of around 30,000 items and seasonal products – generating a wide variety of waste streams, from cardboard, plastic film and residual waste to organic waste, plants, batteries and electrical equipment.
360-Degree Waste Management
Initially, Centershop liaised with multiple waste service providers to ensure the proper disposal of each waste stream. This approach proved to be time-consuming and inefficient. The company therefore sought a partner who could reliably and efficiently manage all environmental and circular economy matters in full compliance. A partner like Interzero: “Thanks to our comprehensive service portfolio, we were able to respond flexibly, consolidate all waste management tasks, and support the market entry as an exclusive all-in-one service provider,” says Santino Schreiner, Key Account Manager at Interzero Austria. Martin Reischl, Managing Director of Centershop Austria, adds: “There is so much to organise when opening a new store – it was a huge relief to identify the right solution for every type of waste with a single call.”
More Order and Efficiency Thanks to Balers
In addition to the actual disposal of waste and recyclables, another practical problem became apparent at the new Centershop location in Parndorf: due to limited storage space, the daily volume of cardboard and plastic film quickly became overwhelming. Once again, Interzero was able to provide a swift solution – literally. The solution was the installation of a baler, enabling packaging waste to be compacted into bales directly on site. Integrating the baler significantly reduced waste volume, freed up storage space, and reduced CO₂-intensive transportation. Furthermore, the retailer now benefits from revenue generated from the raw materials, which Interzero markets directly to the recycling industry. A genuine win-win for both business and the environment.
Legally Compliant Packaging Licensing – Quick and Simple
To expand successfully, Centershop also had to address compliance and Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) requirements. Legally compliant licensing of packaging, batteries, electrical and electronic equipment waste can quickly become challenging when entering a new market. Fortunately, pan-European packaging licensing is a core part of Interzero’s service portfolio. With targeted advice, transparent processes, and tailored contractual solutions, the circular economy service provider was able to assist its client quickly and pragmatically. The result: Centershop signed all relevant licensing agreements, all regulatory requirements fulfilled and market entry legally secured.
For Santino Schreiner, the project was also a personal highlight: “I had only joined Interzero a few months earlier, and it was incredibly motivating to see how quickly we were able as a team to solve several challenges for the customer.” The availability of a single point of contact for all waste and circular economy matters ultimately convinced Centershop. In the meantime, the company has opened additional stores in Austria, with Interzero’s solutions firmly integrated into its concept.
