From July 1
New logo at Kaufland, MediaMarkt and Saturn
June 30, 2026 – 15:11Reading time: 2 min.
Electronics Store Entrance (symbolic image): In the future, a new information sign will be required at the entrance to some retail stores. (Source: IMAGO/MICHAEL BIHLMAYER/imago)
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From July 1, 2026, a new logo will be mandatory at the entrance to supermarkets. But something is changing in online trading.
From tomorrow, numerous supermarkets, discounters and electronics stores will be required to display new labeling – right at the entrance. This is provided for by the Electrical and Electronic Equipment Act (§ 18a ElektroG). Accordingly, from July 1, 2026, electrical equipment collection points must have uniform markings.
The symbol becomes mandatory
The marking consists of two green arrows arranged in a circle on a white background. The circle shows a fork, also green. The two-color logo replaces the previous voluntary symbol.
The logo is intended to indicate that the store offers the possibility of returning old electrical appliances. It should be clearly visible in the entrance area – at least in A4 format.
This is what the logo looks like. (Source: Electrical Law)
The logo has been around for a long time. However, this will only become mandatory from 1 July for anyone offering an e-waste collection point.
But the logo doesn’t just apply to office supply retail. Online retailers should also show this when they accept old devices and dispose of them properly. It then needs to be placed prominently either on the home page or during the ordering process. In addition, online retailers should inform their customers about how old devices are accepted back.
Old devices end up in the trash
The reason for the tightening is the low level of collection of old devices. Germany recently clearly failed to meet the EU target: instead of the required 65 percent, the collection rate in 2019 was only 44.3 percent. Because smartphones, toasters and e-readers are still easy to use. residual waste or throw it in the yellow bin. This not only means the loss of valuable resources. Items disposed of in this manner also pose a hazard to waste collectors and landfill sites. They may explode and cause dangerous fires.
If dealers breach their duty to provide information and collect goods, they may be held liable. German environmental aid has already announced that it will carry out random checks in stores.