UK deposit return scheme for bottles and cans launches 2027

Summarised from 3 outlets · Updated 20 Oct, 05:59 · Archive

Customers will receive refundable deposits on drinks bottles and cans from October 2027 under a government scheme.

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs has announced a Deposit Return Scheme set to launch in October 2027 as part of a drive to cut litter and boost recycling. Customers will receive refundable deposits when they return empty drinks containers to designated collection points. The scheme will apply to single-use drinks containers made mainly from aluminium, steel or PET plastic.

Retailers will have two main responsibilities under the scheme. They must pay the deposit when buying stock from suppliers and then charge that same deposit to customers at the checkout. A refundable deposit fee will be added to eligible drinks sold by retailers, and customers will be able to recover the money by taking empty containers to return points.

Most supermarkets, convenience stores, grocery shops and newsagents selling drinks included in the scheme will be required to provide a return point where customers can collect their refund. Returns can be handled either manually by staff or through automated reverse-vending machines that accept empty containers and issue refunds. The regulations will apply across the entire drinks supply chain, with manufacturers, importers, wholesalers and retailers all required to include the deposit in transactions involving covered products.

Some retailers will be able to apply for exemptions from providing return points. Other organisations may choose to host voluntary return points, including pubs, cafes, leisure centres, schools, sports clubs, community venues, food-to-go outlets and businesses operating vending machines.

How it is being reported

• Plan announced for Tesco, Asda and Sainsbury's to pay customers for recyclingCustomers will be able to get money back on bottles and cans under new government rules to reduce waste at supermarkets and convenience stores.Wiltshire Times · 20 Oct, 05:01
• Plan announced for Tesco, Asda and Sainsbury's to pay customers for recyclingCustomers will be able to get money back on bottles and cans under new government rules to reduce waste at supermarkets and convenience stores.Gazette & Herald · 20 Oct, 05:01
• Plan announced for Tesco, Asda and Sainsbury's to pay customers for recyclingCustomers will be able to get money back on bottles and cans under new government rules to reduce waste at supermarkets and convenience stores.Swindon Advertiser · 20 Oct, 05:01

In this story: Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs · Tesco · Asda · Sainsbury's · UK

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