Returnable Beer Bottles

I went to Shoprite Liquor in Port Shepstone Saturday (09/11/2019) to buy a case of Carling Black Label 750ml. I took my case of empties with me for an exchange. The cashier on duty tells me that if buy 12 loose bottles it would be cheaper and they would NOT take my empties, and if I buy a case it will cost more and then only will they take my empties. This absolutely makes no sense as the empty case is about R20.00. It means I need to pay them to take my case of empties. I understand that you do not care about the consumer just their money, but at least do it for the environment as these bottles are recycled and you will not loose a cent because SAB will fully refund you. I went down the road to Pick n Pay Liquor Store where I was able to buy the beer and return the empties without a question asked.