Get Prepared with ACS Resources
Whether you like it or not… the DRS, deposit return scheme, operated by Exchange for Change in England, Scotland and Northern Ireland will affect every business selling soft drinks in the UK. The Welsh Government are yet to appoint an operator but Welsh businesses are still expected to be affected.
It comes into force throughout the UK by October 2027 – and by then every retailer will have to make some crucial decisions about how they will comply with it. That’s about 15 months away. Some decisions could mean you’ll want to change the layout of your store. If many retailers all want to change their store layout at the same time, there could be a shortage of shopfitters to help. So don’t wait too long before thinking through your approach for your store.
Under the scheme, a 20p deposit will be added to eligible drinks containers, with customers able to reclaim that deposit when they return the empty container.
For convenience retailers, there will be important decisions to make around how your store participates. Businesses may choose to operate a manual return point, install a Reverse Vending Machine (RVM), or, in some circumstances, apply for an exemption. Every retailer selling in-scope drinks containers will still need to register and charge the deposit on eligible products. Drinks containers with a volume between 150ml and 3 litres that are either made from PET plastic or metal will be in scope and have a 20p deposit charged on them.
The Welsh Government intends to include glass within its scheme, and have laid its own regulations, although details of how this will work have not yet been confirmed.
ShopMate will ensure that your till software to help you comply with the regulations.
To help retailers prepare, the Association of Convenience Stores (ACS) has launched a comprehensive DRS Resources Centre packed with practical guidance, FAQs, updates and downloadable guides. The hub covers everything from return point options and exemption criteria to handling fees, container storage and customer communication.
Retailers can access the ACS DRS Resources Centre here:
The ACS guidance is regularly updated as more details about the scheme are confirmed, making it one of the most valuable sources of information for convenience retailers preparing for DRS. Whether you’re just starting to explore your options or looking to understand the operational impact on your business, the resources available can help you make informed decisions well ahead of the launch date.
