What is the UK’s DRS trying to achieve?
The UK’s DRS represents a coordinated effort to rethink packaging waste. While each UK nation is tailoring its scheme to local needs, the core principles are shared:
- Simple and consistent consumer messaging
- Accessible return infrastructure like Reverse Vending Machines (RVMs)
- Clear obligations for producers and retailers
- Integrated data systems for transparency and traceability
Our sister brand, RLG, has over 20 years of global experience, including recent work in Uruguay, which means we draw on this to understand what it takes to deliver a successful return system.
Learn more about RLG’s return system expertise
How UK nations are approaching DRS
Each UK nation is contributing unique strengths to the collective DRS framework:
- Scotland: Early rollout learnings bring operational insights
- Wales: Inclusion of glass shows environmental ambition
- England and Northern Ireland: Working toward harmonisation for ease and clarity
This cooperative approach will give producers and retailers consistent requirements and give consumers a familiar return process, no matter where they shop.
For producers: Preparing with purpose
Starting 1 October 2027, producers must be:
- Registered with the deposit management organisation
- Applying the deposit fee to eligible drinks containers
- Reporting drink volumes placed on the market
- Labelling products correctly under scheme rules
- Paying deposits and applicable fees
In partnership with RLG, we support producers through:
- Label reviews and compliance checks
- Fee impact analysis
- IT integration and reporting tools
- Real-time tracking and supply chain insights
For retailers: Powering the return experience
Retailers will be the face of the DRS for most consumers. Their responsibilities include:
- Paying the deposit when purchasing drinks from suppliers
- Charging the deposit to consumers
- Providing return points, either manual or via Reverse Vending Machines (unless exempt)
We’re working closely with Ecovend, our sister company, to deploy RVM solutions that are scalable, reliable, and integrate smoothly into retail operations, whether you’re a national chain or a local shop.
Data and technology: The backbone of DRS success
Beyond the physical infrastructure, digital infrastructure is essential to ensuring the DRS delivers results.
With robust IT systems, stakeholders can benefit from:
- Verified return rates across product types and geographies
- Real-time tracking of containers through the system
- Compliance reports for regulators
- Actionable insights for sustainability and design improvements
RLG provides these digital capabilities to turn DRS data into smarter business decisions.
Facing challenges — Together
Rolling out a UK-wide DRS is a massive undertaking. Challenges include:
- Coordinating across devolved administrations
- Building and maintaining return infrastructure
- Driving consumer behaviour change
But by keeping a shared focus on cleaner communities, circular materials, and data-driven systems, the UK can deliver a world-class scheme.
