Launched today (1st March) at the ACS Responsible
Retailing Seminar, the new DRS Scotland guide provides a
comprehensive overview of the scheme being introduced in Scotland
in August this year, as well as detailed guidance on how
retailers should go about deciding what part they’ll play in the
operation of the scheme.
The Deposit Return Scheme in Scotland will introduce a 20p
deposit on PET Plastic, glass and metal single use containers
between 50ml and 3ltrs. Consumers can get the deposit back when
they return the containers to retailers, either via a dedicated
Reverse Vending Machine (RVM) or through a manual returns
process. ACS’ Deposit Return Scheme guide outlines the areas that
retailers need to consider when looking at whether to install an
RVM in their store, do manual returns of containers, or apply for
an exemption from the scheme altogether.
ACS chief executive James Lowman said: “This guide is essential
reading for any retailers in Scotland looking at their options
when it comes to the introduction of the Deposit Return Scheme
later this year, and any suppliers who are looking for a clear
explanation of the ins and outs of the scheme and the changes
that will have to be made in stores to accommodate returns.
“I encourage all retailers in Scotland to utilise our guide to
help their decision making and implementation process in the
coming months. We know from previous changes in legislation that
there can be a tendency to leave things to the last minute – it’s
absolutely crucial that everyone starts preparing as soon as
possible to ensure that they’re ready for August.”
The guide includes details on the following areas of the scheme:
- How the scheme works and how deposits move through the supply
chain
- How to make the decision about what kind of return point (if
any) to provide for customers in store
- What retailers need to consider when processing returns
manually
- What retailers need to consider when installing and
maintaining a reverse vending machine (RVM)
- How to collect and store containers away from the
customer-facing areas of the store
- How to apply for a proximity exemption from the scheme
- How to apply for an environmental health exemption from the
scheme
The Scottish scheme is set to go live on August 16th.
England, Wales and Northern Ireland have also announced plans for
a Deposit Return Scheme, coming into force in 2025. ACS is
currently consulting with the Government on the appointment of a
Deposit Management Organisation (DMO) ahead of the introduction
of the scheme.
The full DRS Scotland guide is available on the ACS website here:
https://www.acs.org.uk/advice/drs-scotland
