New research conducted by ACS (the Association of Convenience
Stores) has revealed that just one in five independent retailers
in the UK have a plan for what they're going to do when the
Deposit Return Scheme is introduced in October 2027.
The findings, from the ACS Voice of Local Shops Survey of 1100
independent and symbol group retailers, show that more than half
of those surveyed (53%) are not aware of the deposit return
scheme at all, with just over one in four (27%) aware of the
scheme but currently with no plan for how they're going to be
part of it.
Of those who have a plan for their business, 12% said they plan
to take back containers manually, 5% intend to invest in a
reverse vending machine to manage returns, and 3% plan to seek an
exemption from the scheme.
ACS chief executive James Lowman said: " Deposit Return Schemes
have been talked about for over a decade, with a lot of noise and
false starts that have understandably left retailers exhausted by
the concept, let alone the detail. We now have a firm timeline
for the introduction of the scheme, so retailers need to start
thinking about their plans for how they're going to be part of
the scheme when it's introduced in October 2027, whether that be
through hosting a reverse vending machine, taking back containers
manually, or applying for an exemption. We are committed to
working with the Deposit Management Organisation to ensure that
convenience retailers are ready for the introduction of DRS
across the UK."
Rebecca Oliver-Mooney, UK DMO Board Director representing
Convenience Retail, said: "Convenience retailers will be
essential in making DRS a success, providing local neighbourhood
return points that will make returns easy for consumers and help
us to cut waste and increase recycling. As a DMO, we truly
recognise the unique challenges for convenience and that's why
we've been working really closely with the ACS and other
convenience groups to ensure that their views and experience of
the sector shape our work as we develop the scheme.
“These findings demonstrate the importance of helping convenience
operators get the information they need to make informed
decisions. As our work to build the scheme continues, we'll be
able to provide much more detail throughout the first half of
2026. This will include hosting a series of free webinars on how
DRS will work, including one with ACS, as well as regular
newsletters and specific updates for the convenience sector. We
look forward to continuing our work with the ACS and other
organisations to support the sector in preparing for the launch
of the scheme in 2027."
