The UK DMO was confirmed as the operator of the forthcoming deposit return scheme (DRS) on 6 May 2025.
Set to go live in October 2027, the DRS will cover single-use plastic and metal drinks containers between 150ml and three litres in England, Northern Ireland and Scotland.
John Bason to chair
Bason brings extensive experience from the food, drink and retail supply chains, overseeing the expansion of food charity FairShare as Chair and working as the Finance Director of Associated British Foods for over 20 years.
He has also held senior roles at United Biscuits, the global distribution company Bunzl and was Senior Independent Director for the food service business Compass Group.
Commenting on the appointment, Bason said: “The Deposit Return Scheme is an opportunity to deliver a transformational change in the UK’s circular economy for these drinks containers.
“However, it is also a complex and challenging undertaking that will only be effective if it is easy for consumers to use, fair for retailers and producers of every size, and trusted by the public.
“That’s why I will be focused on ensuring that the views and insights of as many people as possible inform how we build the scheme.”
Circular Economy Minister Mary Creagh said: “I look forward to working closely with John and the team to deliver the deposit return scheme, which will stop the avalanche of rubbish that is filling up our streets and rivers, while kickstarting economic growth and creating new green jobs.”
Andrew Muir, Northern Ireland Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs Minister, added: “I am pleased to welcome the appointment of John Bason as the Chair of UK DMO, a pivotal step in delivering the Deposit Return Scheme and an important milestone in our collective efforts to increase recycling rates, tackle litter and reduce our carbon emissions.”
UK DMO appointments
The DMO has appointed a number of interim leaders to guide the organisation’s setup, operations and engagement planning, with recruitment for the other Board and Senior level positions underway.
Since its appointment, the organisation has been working with businesses, trade associations, consumer groups, environmental groups and other stakeholders on the development of the DRS.
Its board consists of members which were nominated by trade associations and represent large and small producers, major supermarkets, small convenience stores and wholesalers.
Bason said: “I’ve been impressed by the commitment and deep experience of my colleagues who have already been appointed at UK DMO, and I share their determination to build a scheme that works for everyone.
“Our goal is clear: bring business and consumers together to prevent billions of bottles and cans from littering our streets, seas and countryside, whilst cutting carbon emissions in the process.”
Scottish Government Climate Action Secretary Gillian Martin added: “Establishing a deposit return scheme has been a long-running and consistent commitment of the Scottish Government.
“This appointment marks an important milestone as industry progresses towards scheme launch in October 2027, and we will continue to engage with UK DMO Ltd to support their delivery of a successful scheme in Scotland.”
