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.
A deposit will be added to these items which can be claimed back by consumers at takeback points.
The scheme is designed to keep more drinks containers in circulation and increase recycling rates.
The management organisation is responsible for designing and operating the systems that make the scheme work – including producer registration, logistics, finance, fraud prevention and public communications.
The Scottish government has decided that the UK DMO will also be its designated scheme administrator.
The UK DMO is a not-for-profit organisation created by the sector and will commence its work by engaging with the three governments, producers, retailers, consumers and environmental groups.
Read the full story on the appointment of UK DMO here and see how the industry has responded below.
Biffa
Carla Brian, Biffa’s head of partnerships, said: “The environmental and economic importance of the DRS is significant.
“A key part of the circular economy, DRS will help tackle littering and further boost recycling rates, which in turn will help preserve natural resources and reduce emissions.
“It is estimated DRS will save 263,600 tonnes tonnes of CO2e per year – about the same amount of carbon produced by 35,000 UK homes each year.
“It also presents a major opportunity for investment and job creation. DRS will need a national network of counting and sorting centres, reverse vending machines, logistics and collection systems, and digital infrastructure. This demand will create opportunities throughout the UK including an estimated 4,000 jobs and is projected to generate a net benefit of £554.6million to the UK economy per year.
“The government’s appointment of the DMO for the new DRS for single-use plastic and metal drinks containers in England, Northern Ireland and Scotland is welcome news.
“Biffa is committed to working with the DMO, alongside local, regional and national authorities, and drinks producers, retailers and others, to develop and deliver a successful DRS for October 2027.”
The National Association of Waste Disposal Officers (NAWDO)
A spokesperson for the National Association of Waste Disposal Officers (NAWDO) said: “NAWDO welcomes the announcement of the appointment of the UK DMO for the drinks container deposit return system (DRS).
“There remain many unanswered questions on how local authorities will interact with
the DRS, how they will be funded for drinks containers they continue to manage, what
will be done to address a loss of local authority income from the sale of collected
recyclate, and how any negative street cleansing impacts caused by ‘bin raiding’ by
scavengers will be addressed.
“NAWDO looks forward to working with the new DMO in the coming months and years
on these and other issues.”
Polytag
Alice Rackley, CEO of Polytag, said: “The appointment of the DMO is a positive and much-needed step forward for the UK’s DRS. It’s certainly encouraging to see momentum returning and some real progress being made towards something that we know will deliver clear environmental and economic benefits across the UK – the unified system we’ve been waiting for.
“With the announcement of a board made up of digital-focussed organisations such as Co-op, Tesco and Coca-Cola, it’s clear we are on the path towards a flexible, accessible model that can include a digital component. These organisations have already demonstrated a strong interest in digital solutions, with Coca-Cola using serialised codes for traceability in other global markets and Co-op recently supported our industry-led letter to government calling for a digital DRS approach. Combined with the support from the major retailers and brands we work with, the direction of travel is undeniable, and the industry should take a positive stance. Things are moving forwards, and the foundation is being laid for a DRS, with digital in mind, that is fit for purpose.
“Furthermore, this move offers a potential path towards resolving the current challenge around Wales’ involvement and this moment could serve as the bridge for renewed cooperation and progress.
“From Polytag’s point of view, as the world moves increasingly towards digital solutions, GS1 standards will be essential. As a GS1-approved partner working closely with global standards organisations, we are ready to support brands and the DMO in delivering a system that is interoperable across the UK, grounded in real-world data and that is built to last. We just hope this doesn’t follow the same path as EPR, where momentum has stalled and funding won’t deliver real recycling benefits until well into the next decade.
“There is a real opportunity to ensure that money raised goes directly into improving recycling system and we’re optimistic that this new structure can make that happen. So, let’s get on with it!”
GS1 UK
Anne Godfrey, CEO of GS1 UK, said: “The appointment of a Deposit Management Organisation marks a pivotal moment in the UK’s journey towards building a truly circular economy. GS1 UK welcomes this announcement and the renewed momentum it will bring to the implementation of harmonised Deposit Return Schemes across the four nations.
“As part of the organisation behind the global standards that underpin retail and supply chain interoperability, we have long advocated for a DRS that is unified, efficient and digitally enabled. A consistent, data-driven system, underpinned by open standards such as GS1 barcodes and QR codes, will be critical in ensuring transparency, traceability and ease of use for both businesses and consumers.
“We encourage the newly appointed DMO to work closely with industry and solution providers to ensure interoperability is at the heart of scheme design. Leveraging GS1 standards will not only simplify the return process, it will unlock opportunities for innovation—such as Digital DRS models—that can enhance consumer engagement and system efficiency.
“GS1 UK stands ready to collaborate with the DMO and industry stakeholders to help deliver a future-proofed, scalable solution that supports sustainability while minimising disruption to businesses. This is a landmark step in the right direction. Let’s ensure we make the most of it together.”
Suntory Beverage and Food
Elise Seibold, chief operating officer at Suntory Beverage and Food Great Britain and Ireland, said: “The appointment of the UK DMO is another significant step towards a circular economy for drinks containers.
“Through cross industry collaboration, we show our commitment to delivering a scheme that works for everyone – drinks producers, consumers and retailers.
“As well as long term benefits such as reduced litter and increased recycling rates, an October 2027 DRS is also a critical step for businesses, and the UK, to achieve net zero. Together we can create a scheme that reduces waste, fosters sustainable habits and sets a global standard for environmental leadership.”
The Food and Drink Federation
Jim Bligh, director of corporate affairs and packaging at The Food and Drink Federation, said: “We warmly welcome the appointment of the Deposit Management Organisation for the UK’s deposit return scheme. Deposit return schemes (DRS) around the world have proven to reduce litter, increase the amount of recycled content in drinks containers, and improve recycling rates, and we look forward to the UK’s scheme having a big impact here too.
“We’re disappointed that Wales will not be part of the scheme from the outset. Securing involvement from all four nations will help the DRS reach its full potential, creating an effective scheme for consumers, government and business. We’re committed to working with all the UK’s governments to help make this a reality.”
Wastepack
CEO of Wastepack, Paul Van Danzig: “The formation of the DMO is a crucial milestone in the journey toward a successful DRS for drinks containers in the UK.
“While there are still significant challenges ahead – especially around timelines, interoperability, and clarity for obligated producers and retailers – this development provides a strong foundation for progress.
“We look forward to working collaboratively to ensure the scheme delivers both meaningful environmental benefits and a fair, efficient system for all involved.”
Reconomy Connect
David Gudgeon, head of external affairs at international circular economy specialist Reconomy Connect, said: “The appointment of UK DMO as scheme administrator for the government’s DRS is an important milestone ahead of it coming into effect in October 2027.
“Once operational, the scheme has the potential to address the depletion of natural resources and help close the vast circularity gap through encouraging the return of empty containers which can be re-used and recycled back into the economy.
“By working together, industry stakeholders can help ensure the scheme’s success which will reduce plastic pollution and carbon emissions while driving job creation and investment.”
CIRQLR
David Palmer-Jones, CEO of business recycling group CIRQLR, said: “We fully support this Government’s timely appointment of a UK DMO as we are all now working collaboratively to a tight timescale in order to deliver on what has been a refreshingly joined up approach to the regulatory changes needed todrive towards a more circular economy.
“With Simpler Recycling and extended producer responsibility now under way, a fully functioning deposit return scheme will capture much higher volumes of quality materials that both improve recycling rates and dramatically reduce littering – as we can see from similar schemes across Europe and more recently closer to home in Ireland.
“Today’s announcement is another example of this government working well and at pace to create the investable conditions that will allow us to build the infrastructure required and deliver the jobs needed as we move to circularity.”
The Aluminium Packaging Recycling Organisation (Alupro)
Tom Giddings, executive director of the Aluminium Packaging Recycling Organisation (Alupro), said: “The DMO appointment is a great next step towards the operational launch of DRS in the UK.
“DRS presents a great opportunity to capitalise on the progress industry has made so far in increasing beverage can recycling rates through programmes such as Every Can Counts, whilst securing a high-quality stream of valuable aluminium material for recycling.
“Alupro look forward to working alongside the DMO to scale and deliver a UK-focussed DRS that helps to increase the capture and recycling rates of beverage packaging.”
Tomra
Sondre Henningsgård, managing director of Tomra UK, said: “DRS represents a huge opportunity for the UK to protect resources for future generations, ensuring that the 26 billion single use plastic bottles and cans consumed each year can be collected for high quality recycling.
“We are committed to working in partnership across the industry to ensure the success of the scheme. We look forward to bringing our leading technology and experience from other DRS markets to help retailers to prepare effectively for the scheme”.
Reloop
Sarah Horner, UK and Ireland director at circular economy non-profit Reloop, said: “We are delighted that the vital DRS has reached an important milestone with the appointment of the DMO, moving us one step closer to achieving the environmental benefits and circular economy opportunities offered by DRS.
“We look forward to working with the DMO in establishing the structure to get the DRS up and running on schedule by October 2027.
“There is a strong mandate behind the scheme, with around 70% of the public backing it and with continued support from politicians across the political spectrum.
“The DRS will play an important role in reducing litter in our rivers, seas, streets and trails by incentivising the return of drinks containers.
“This in turn will provide a valuable resource for industry, ensuring a steady flow of material as all four nations of the UK step up the drive to a more circular economy.”
WRAP
Claire Shrewsbury, director of insights and innovation at environmental charity WRAP, said: “WRAP supports a well-designed DRS as part of the UK’s recycling. It is critical the DMO convenes the right parties to deliver an effective and engaging DRS system that people will want to use.
“A significant behaviour change campaign based on the insights around existing recycling engagement and from other countries must support its introduction, to ensure people are aware of, and clear how to use this form of recycling alongside existing collections.
“We are happy to play our part in supporting the introduction of DRS to citizens in this way.”
British Soft Drinks Association
British Soft Drinks Association director general, Gavin Partington, said: “The British Soft Drinks Association welcomes the UK government’s appointment of UK DMO as scheme administrator for its DRS.
“This appointment marks a key milestone in realising the opportunities of a more circular economy, driving £1.13bn of industry investment over the next three years and creating more than 4,000 jobs across England, Scotland and Northern Ireland.
“The British soft drinks industry looks forward to playing our part in ensuring successful delivery of a DRS by October 2027.”
British Retail Consortium
British Retail Consortium director of food and sustainability, Andrew Opie, said: “A well-designed DRS, with retail at its heart, will be an important contribution to delivering a circular economy in the UK. We welcome today’s appointment of the DMO to oversee the DRS. Retailers and the BRC have been central to the DMO’s development, committing significant funding, time and resource to get to this point and we are pleased that our voice will continue to be heard as the initiative progresses.
“The DMO must now get to work to ensure the smooth delivery of a DRS that works for businesses and consumers. We look forward to engaging with them and the government to ensure that DRS makes a meaningful difference to recycling across the UK.”
Natural Source Waters Association
Natural Source Waters Association general manager, Kinvara Carey, said: “We at the Natural Source Waters Association and our members have been working hard with UK and devolved governments, alongside other trade associations, drinks producers and retailers to get to this significant milestone.
“This announcement is great news for all involved. The DMO will have a clear focus on developing the most efficient and effective Scheme to reduce littering and enable more drink containers to stay in the loop and be given another life.”
Association of Convenience Stores (ACS)
Association of Convenience Stores (ACS) chief executive, James Lowman, said: “This is a major step towards the delivery of a DRS for the UK. For the scheme to deliver a step change in recycling rates, local shops will need to play an integral part, offering a convenient network of return points both for local residents and people consuming drinks on the go.
“We are looking forward to working with the newly formed DMO to ensure that the scheme is operationally viable and attractive for retailers to take part in.
“With less than two-and-a-half years before launch, it is vital that retailers can make informed choices about how to take part in the scheme, and we are committed to providing the information and advice they need.”
British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA)
British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA) chief executive, Emma McClarkin said: “Our sector is committed to sustainable packaging and a more circular economy and we are proud to have been involved in the development of an industry-led, not for profit, organisation to run the DRS.
“The ambition now is to deliver a complex scheme that requires very significant investment in challenging times with major changes to operations, in a way that’s as cost-effective as possible, while furthering environmental goals.”
The Federation of Wholesale Distributors and the Scottish Wholesale Association
The Federation of Wholesale Distributors and the Scottish Wholesale Association jointly said: “The wholesale sector welcomes the announcement of the appointment of the DRS DMO. This is a significant step forward in progressing a workable and effective DRS across the UK.
“We are pleased the wholesale sector is represented on the DMO Board, ensuring our voice and the interests of wholesalers operating across the UK, is heard at the highest level. Our engagement will be constructive and grounded in the operational knowledge and experience of our members.
“It is vital that the unique challenges faced by wholesale businesses, as both distributors, producers and as retailers are recognised and addressed in a practical and proportionate manner by the DMO. Our priority remains ensuring a DRS that is both environmentally effective and commercially workable for our sector.”
Northern Ireland Food and Drink Association
Northern Ireland Food and Drink Association executive director, Michael Bell OBE said: “Food and drink manufacturers want to see the smoothest possible operation for consumers, for industry, and for delivering for the environment.
“In Northern Ireland we have seen how DRS has developed in the Republic of Ireland and we have been working with government and industry colleagues on the development of a similar scheme for the UK.
“We look forward to working with the DMO as the delivery of the scheme progresses.”
Scottish Grocers’ Federation
Scottish Grocers’ Federation chief executive, Dr Pete Cheema OBE, said: “SGF understands how important DRS will be for our members and for promoting sustainability across Scotland and the UK. That is why we worked closely with the Scottish government and stakeholders throughout the development of the Scottish DRS.
“Our engagement with Defra and the Advisory Council to establish the DMO has been positive, and we look forward to working closely with the new administration team in the coming months and years. Now that the DMO is in place, it provides an important opportunity for our members to address any concerns they have as early as possible and help build confidence in the scheme. Making sure that retailers have all the information they need about the options available to them.
“SGF will also continue to meet with the DRS team in the Scottish government, and our colleagues across the Scottish sector, to support the delivery of a fully fit for purpose scheme that works for all parts of the supply chain.”
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