Who runs devolver?

The company was founded and is run by Allison and Mary, two mums from Sydney’s Northern Beaches who wanted to do something about this wasteful world we live in. You can read more about our story here.

How does devolver work, in simple terms?

By showing the QR code in their app, takeaway lovers can borrow a container for their take away food from a participating food outlet and return it within a 14 day time frame to the same or another participating outlet for no fee. Tracking happens digitally through the retailer using their app to scan the customer’s QR code against the QR of the borrowed container.

So who pays?

We charge our food outlet partners a small fee per use that is similar to the cost of buying a single use container. There is no outlay or fixed monthly fee. Our partners only pay us if a container is used and therefore a single use container avoided.

We are a mission driven business and as such have tied our financial success to our environmental impact.

Why a digital system and not just a refundable deposit?

There are a few reasons we decided against a refundable deposit system:

1. A deposit is an outlay. Subconsciously it feels a bit like an added cost.

2. It’s an unnecessary transaction and bookkeeping hassle.

3. There’s no urgency in returning. Without a deadline and reminder, it’s easy to forget to return your container. As seen with other schemes, the item might just sit on peoples’ shelves for months or be forgotten all together. We need our containers back in the loop so they can actively replace single use containers. That’s the whole point of the exercise and the most efficient way to reach our goal of replacing single use.

4. Our apps keep track of your impact, which is a great motivator.

How do I use devolver as a takeaway lover?

First, download the app. Follow the prompts and it’ll take just a few minutes to set up your account. The app has a map and a list of takeaway locations currently using devolver. When you order your takeaway from one of these partners, ask for your food in a devolver reusable container and show your unique QR code located within the app. The staff will then scan it together with the QR code of the container you are borrowing. Return it within 14 days to the same or another participating location and you will not be charged a cent. Done!

Do I need to wash my container before I return it?

If you're returning it on the day, you don’t need to worry about washing your container. However, we do ask that you give it a wash if you keep it for any longer. Our containers are dishwasher safe. Every partner will professionally clean the container again before handing it out to the next customer.

Why do you need my payment details?

Your payment details are taken for security only. You won’t be charged as long as you return your borrowed container/s within 14 days. Don’t worry, we will send you a number of reminders before the due date! If you do lose, break or fail to return the container/s, the replacement fee is $15 per container. This is automatically charged to your payment method once the 14 day loan period is up. However, you can always contact us if you have any questions or concerns.

Can I extend my loan period?

For just $2 per container you can extend your loan period by 7 days. This is a non refundable cost and a one off so please make sure you return the container/s before the new expiration date to avoid the $15 replacement fee.

Can someone else return the container for me?

Yes absolutely. Each container is uniquely identified via their QR code so we will know it’s your container, no matter who returns it.

Can I return the container/s to a location different to where I borrowed it?

Yes. You can return the borrowed container/s to any participating devolver outlet. You can find these in the app!

What are the containers made from?

Our containers are made from food grade 304 stainless steel, together with a BPA free food grade PP lid. The container is leak proof and has as few parts as possible to make cleaning a breeze. They are dishwasher safe but please don’t put them in the microwave!

Can I just buy a devolver container?

Our containers are not for sale. In theory you can “purchase” a container by not returning it but that’s not the point of the exercise. Let’s face it, we aren’t very good at remembering to BYO so just keep them in the system so they can work hard and eliminate as much single use as possible! We will also make sure that our containers are recycled and made into new ones at the end of their useful life.

What do I need to set up devolver in my business?

All you need to offer devolver in your business is an apple smart device to install the retailer app on. This can be a shared smart phone / iPad or staff members can have the app installed on their own phones and use the business account login. We will deliver your containers as well as info material and signage, and assist you all along the way.

How do I sign up my business with devolver?

To join our network as a retailer, you can either contact us direct and we will walk you through, or you can download the retailer app and enter your details there. You will then be contacted by a devolver representative who will guide you through the process and answer any questions you may have. Devolver will provide you with the reusable containers, information material, and signage to display in your business.