Recycle & Make $: East Haven Bottle, Can Redemption Center Opening

EAST HAVEN, CT — Saying it's "changing the whole bottle return experience," the CT Redemption Center officially opens in East Haven on Sept. 15, according to owner Priyal Garala.

Located at 99 Commerce St., the can and plastic and glass bottle redemption center features automated counters that can "count thousands of empties in minutes."

"No more manual hand counting as other redemption centers require or hassle with feeding into those machines at grocery stores," the business advertises.

The business accepts all CT deposit returns of cans and bottles, including "all store brands." And, it's free.

"You receive your full 5¢ return. We don't cut any percentage, fee, or charge you any amount," it's noted.

The service also invites schools, scout groups, churches, and non-profits to raise money through a bottle drive. Find that information here.

So what's the catch?

If it can be called one, it's that folks need to do a bit of organizing.

Bring plastics and cans in separate bags, have 2-liter bottles in a separate bag "as they are too large to be counted by our automated counters" and pack glass bottles in a box.

The redemption center, which already has locations in Windsor, South Windsor and Vernon, opens Sept. 15 at 9 a.m.

For more information, visit its Facebook page or call 475-777-1555.