MSP seeks views from South Scotland businesses on Deposit Return Scheme

Craig Hoy, a Conservative MSP for South Scotland, is seeking views from brewing and hospitality-related businesses in South Scotland ahead of the introduction of Scotland’s Deposit Return Scheme on 16 August 2023.

The scheme will result in consumers paying a small deposit of 20p when they buy a drink in a single-use container, which they can then get back when they return the empty bottle or can.

Mr Hoy, who is the convener of the Cross-Party Group on Beer and Pubs, said: “Scotland is planning on introducing one of the most environmentally ambitious Deposit Return Schemes yet, involving tens of thousands of producers and retailers, all in 16 months’ time.

“While welcoming its ambitions, we’re aware that significant changes will need to be made – to systems, to practices and to behaviour – that may come at a cost. For Scotland’s brewing and pubs sector in particular, this timing may be problematic as they’re already facing a wall of inflationary and energy related pressures while fighting back from COVID.

“We’re holding this inquiry to help us understand what needs to happen to make the scheme a success for all.”

Any written evidence should be submitted to paul@beergroup.co.uk by Friday 7th May. There will also be an oral evidence session in May when a panel of MSPs will hear from expert witnesses.