The association has launched a DRS resource hub, bringing together a range of guidance and practical information to support retailers ahead of the scheme coming into force in October 2027.
Research conducted through ACS’s Voice of Local Shops Survey of more than 1,000 independent retailers found that 48% currently have no awareness of DRS.
However, the survey also found that one third of retailers are actively considering whether they will operate a reverse vending machine or provide a manual takeback service.
The new online hub includes the latest version of ACS’s comprehensive DRS guide, updated in June 2026, alongside learnings from Vienna, where a deposit return scheme has been operating for just over a year.
Retailers will also be able to access exclusive presentations detailing how stores in Ireland have delivered the scheme, frequently asked questions about day-to-day operations, and a glossary explaining the key terms and principles underpinning DRS.
ACS Chief Executive Ed Woodall said: “The introduction of the DRS will mark a major change in operations for thousands of stores, so it’s essential that retailers have as much information as possible about the scheme to be able to make an informed decision.
“Our DRS Resources Hub is a fantastic starting point for those who want to get up to speed quickly and enhance their understanding of the how to operate a return point.
“Throughout the next 18 months we will continue to update and upgrade our DRS Resources Hub, with videos, presentations, detailed FAQs and regular updates to our industry leading guidance.”
Deposit Return Scheme to begin in October 2027
Ahead of DRS’s introduction in October 2027, every retailer in England, Scotland and Northern Ireland will need to decide how they intend to interact with the scheme.
While some retailers will qualify for exemptions, which the scheme administrator announced last week, the majority are expected to provide a return point either through an automatic reverse vending machine or a manual in-store takeback service.
Under the UK-wide scheme covering England, Scotland and Northern Ireland, consumers will pay a 20p deposit on PET plastic and metal drinks containers, which can be reclaimed when the empty containers are returned through approved collection points.
Retailers hosting return points will receive handling fees linked to the volume of containers returned and the type of collection system used.
Manual return points will receive 3p per container returned, while automatic return points will receive 5p per container on the first 225,000 containers collected annually and 1.3p for each container thereafter within the same year.
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