The list is intended to help retailers prepare for the launch of the scheme on 1 October 2027.
Retailers considering buying or leasing an RVM are being advised to check it before choosing a model.
The Deposit Management Organisation (DMO) has also released new artwork guidance for the machines.
Russell Davies, Exchange For Change Chief Executive Officer, said: “Publishing the first list of certified RVMs is an important step in helping retailers prepare for the launch of the Deposit Return Scheme in October 2027.
“We will continue to provide guidance and support as preparations for scheme go-live progress, including through the grant scheme available to eligible small independent retailers to support the purchase of an RVM.”
The scheme will include single-use drinks containers between 150ml and three litres made from PET plastic, steel and aluminium.
Consumers will pay a refundable deposit of 20p when purchasing an in-scope container and will be able to reclaim it by returning the empty container to a designated return point.
Certification process
Exchange For Change said certification confirms that a machine is compatible with the RVM specification needed to operate within the DRS. Each machine submitted is tested against 77 separate requirements.
These cover the identification and acceptance of eligible containers, fraud prevention, connectivity with scheme systems, accessibility, and the secure handling of transaction data.
The certification was carried out independently by a specialist assessment provider.
The process will remain open so that new RVM suppliers can submit machines for assessment, and the list will be updated as further machines are certified.
Artwork guidance
Exchange For Change has also published RVM Artwork Guidelines, setting out approved branding, signage and consumer instructions for certified machine models.
The organisation said that the aim is to create a consistent, recognisable look across return points, making it easier for consumers to find where they can return containers and redeem their 20p deposit.
Retailers can adopt the approved branding alongside their own.
The full list
The current list includes:
- Tomra
- RVM Systems
- EcoVend by Reconomy
- Recyclever
- Envipco
- Sielaff
- Ripet
Information on return point exemptions, grant funding for eligible independent retailers, and how to register for the scheme is available at exchangeforchange.co.uk.
Hemanshu Patel, National President of the The Federation of Independent Retailers, said: “This is another important milestone in the roll-out of DRS, and the Fed will be monitoring this list closely so members wishing to install an RVM will be able to do so once the scheme goes live in less than a year’s time.
“The specification will also be critical for some of our members who will qualify for a £6,000 grant, with the application process launching in January 2027.
“We will continue to work closely with Exchange for Change to ensure that information is shared with our members, who will be crucial for ensuring DRS successfully boosts recycling in the years ahead.”
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