Deposit Return Schemes: What’s In Store?

Some 4bn plastic bottles, 2.7bn cans and 1.5bn glass bottles are not recycled every year in the UK*.

We have taken a deep dive into how the introduction of deposit return schemes may impact shoppers and retailers in the UK. Even though many aspects of the schemes are yet to be decided, we believe that retailers need to start thinking now about one of the biggest changes being introduced to consumers and retailers in generations.
By creating Deposit Return Schemes (DRS), governments want to increase the recycling rate of drinks containers and reduce littering.

We’re passionate advocates for effective Deposit Return Schemes, which is why we’re a founding member of Circularity Scotland – the new scheme ‘administrator’ for Scotland’s DRS. And all of the schemes being introduced will stimulate a circular economy for soft drinks containers, ensuring precious rPET is turned back into bottles and cans are turned back into cans, again and again.

bottle recycling
can recycling
matthew deane

Deposit Return Schemes will bring about one of the biggest changes in shopper behaviour in generations.

Many people purchase on autopilot and will be surprised that they will have to pay more up front and then retain the items in excellent condition to get a deposit back. Most retailers selling any bottle or can in the schemes will have to offer a collection service. This will positively transform the shopper relationship with materials like plastic and cans. It’s important retailers understand this shift so they are in the best placed to adapt to these forthcoming changes. We’re on hand to help them on this journey.

Matthew Deane, Head of Customer Marketing,
Suntory Beverage & Food GB&I

Our exclusive research shows that shoppers can change their relationship with plastic bottles in just 7 weeks! To learn more about this shift in behaviour please download our report in full or reach out to us directly if you would like any more information.

Ribena 500ml being recycled