when they implemented this in Germany, they have several of these machines at their supermarkets and not just measly 1 per location like ours. so you don't have to wait so long even if others are hogging them.
Look at the number of machines they have at a big supermarket where the return rate will be higher. Problem in SG is, they didn't consider the amount of space this system will take up plus all the logistics needed to quickly collect and empty the machines when they are full. End up what we see is that at some supermarkets, the staff have to remove the full bags (as the bins are filled up quickly), replace the bags, and find a space to put the big plastic bags full of crushed plastics/can before the next collection date. So now you end up having these big smelly bags just lying around near the machines.
Our govt forget that our population density is so much higher than in Germany. Can see that they really didn't study the impact of implementing this too quickly and at such a short notice to completely stop the sale of non BCRS drinks. They should instead put a trial for half a year to study whether their system can cope first, gather feedback, tweak the system and ramp the number of BCRS machines at the hotspot areas before fully implementing it.
Maybe have an app as well that can show which ones are full so that ppl don't have to waste their trip. The CCTV they installed at every system? make it livestream too...then ppl can see which ones have long queues from the app and avoid them. With AI, can easily blur the faces of the ppl in the queue. With an app, they can also make the refunds go to your app account instead with an option to further be reimbursed to a CC, bank account, Paypal (for foreigners) or even the Healthy 365 points. or even to be scanned at any participating shops to offset your purchase. Make it friendly for all visitors as well.
Limiting to get your refund currently via just Simplygo Ezlink and DBS pay lah shows that our govt is only targetting the locals. And the reason why they didn't implement for F1.
The way it works in Germany is that the system will print a ticket with a barcode (like CDC vouchers but in smaller denominations instead), which you can either use to offset your next purchase or get cash refund at the cashier.