The UK’s new Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) policy, launching on 1st October 2027, will place a refundable consumer deposit on single-use drinks containers with a volume in the range 150ml – 3litres. This policy applies within England, Scotland and Northern Ireland, to single-use containers made from PET, aluminium and steel.
Wales intend to introduce their own DRS, also to be launched on 1st October 2027, including containers made from PET, aluminium, steel and glass – specific targets and regulations have not yet been finalised.
The scheme is to be delivered by a government appointed Deposit Management Organisation (DMO), in England, Scotland and NI this will be Exchange for Change (a DMO for Wales has not yet been appointed). Visit their website to find resources, guidance and webinars on the DRS, or contact them at enquiries@exchangeforchange.co.uk for further assistance.
Key Obligations for Producers (Manufacturers & Importers):
- register with exchange for change
- apply the DRS scheme logo and returns barcode to all in scope containers
- pay a producer fee per container (fee to be determined Spring 2026)
- keep a record of in-scope containers on the UK market via an online portal
Small-producer exemption: if the number of containers for a unique SKU does not exceed a quantity of 5,000 units per year, you must still register with exchange for change, but are exempt from other obligations under the policy for this product (does not apply to the Wales DRS).
