The UK government has confirmed the scheme will go live in October 2027. With convenience stores to operate as return points from day one of the scheme across the UK, we’re here to help you get ready to successfully participate in the DRS.
The Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) is a UK-wide recycling initiative that will launch on 1 October 2027. It is designed to increase collection and recycling rates for in-scope drinks containers, reduce litter and support a more circular economy. Under the scheme, consumers will pay a refundable deposit when purchasing an eligible drink and receive it back when they return the empty container to a designated return point.
A deposit return scheme encourages behaviour change and challenges the throwaway culture, marking a significant step towards a more circular economy. It offers benefits such as improved recycling and litter prevention, delivering environmental benefits.
Currently, over 50 Deposit Return Schemes worldwide are achieving these key objectives.
Launch date: October 2027
PET plastic bottles, aluminium cans and steel drink containers are eligible
Containers 150ml - 3 litres are included
20p refundable deposit will apply to eligible containers
All retailers that are not automatically exempted must register with Exchange for Change via their website. Register here.
Groceries retailers must operate a return point.
There are two options available depending on the size of the retailer:
Small retailers: There is an exemption if retail selling space is less than 100m2 in an urban area. Full criteria can be viewed here.
Other retailers: Exemption criteria to be confirmed in Q2.
More detail is available on the Exchange for Change website.
Glass is not included in the DRS in England, Scotland and Northern Ireland. Glass will be included in the Welsh scheme, however the deposit will not be added to glass containers in Wales until October 2031. In addition, there is no requirement for label changes.
Please visit Exchange for Change website for the exemptions criteria.
Any business supplying drinks covered by the scheme will need to charge the deposit as part of the sale.
For multipacks of containers, a deposit needs to be included per container. For example, for a six pack of containers, six deposits of 20p will need to be included in the sale.
If you purchase from a wholesaler, they will need to charge you the deposit when selling you in-scope drinks containers.
No, not all small stores;
Please click here for the exemptions criteria.
Manual return point:
Reverse Vending Machine (RVM):
The Deposit Return Scheme continues to evolve as further guidance is published. For the latest information on scheme design, regulations, producer responsibilities and operational requirements, visit Exchange for Change, the Deposit Management Organisation responsible for delivering the scheme across England, Northern Ireland and Scotland.
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