What is the Deposit Return Scheme?
The Deposit Return Scheme is one of the most significant environmental policy shifts in decades.
From 1 October 2027, a small refundable deposit (around 20p) will be added to every eligible single-use plastic bottle and aluminium can sold in the UK. Consumers get it back when they return empty containers to a registered collection point or reverse vending machine.
The aim is to divert an estimated 24.5 billion drinks containers per year into a dedicated closed-loop recycling system — dramatically improving recycling quality and reducing litter nationwide.
The DRS affects every business that sells, serves or manages drinks in single-use containers — but obligations vary by sector and size. It will also impact offices and workplaces where staff will need to be able to dispose of cans and bottles to receive their deposit.
How the DRS Affects Different Sectors
Supermarkets, grocery stores, convenience stores and newsagents that sell in-scope drinks must host a return point unless they qualify for an exemption. Retailers must also register with Exchange for Change, refund deposits at the point of return, store returned containers for collection, and display clear scheme information.
