The Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) in the UK faces another delay, now pushed back to 2026.
- The decision stemmed from meetings involving UK governments and industry bodies, with October 2025 no longer feasible.
- Supermarkets have urged a complete overhaul of the DRS plans, citing exorbitant costs.
- The scheme’s delay is attributed to the need for comprehensive infrastructure planning.
- Scotland’s DRS was already postponed, awaiting Westminster’s support.
The UK government’s Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) is now delayed until 2026, as announced following comprehensive meetings among UK governmental representatives and industry stakeholders. The projected start date of October 2025 has been deemed unrealistic, necessitating a rethink of the current plans.
Supermarket leaders argue that the DRS, expected to impose an estimated cost of £1.8 billion on retailers, demands a fundamental reassessment. The originally reported costs by officials were considerably lower, raising significant industry concerns.
The DRS involves a 20p charge on drink containers, refundable upon return of the bottles and cans by consumers. Despite setbacks, key industry figures remain optimistic about the scheme’s future, emphasising that the major companies’ commitment should drive it forward.
According to insiders, the government’s timeline for the DRS requires strategic revision to avoid hasty, potentially detrimental implementations. The Association of Convenience Stores (ACS) underscores this point, urging cautious planning to establish the necessary infrastructure.
In Scotland, the DRS has faced prior delays, awaiting essential backing from Westminster. This ongoing postponement highlights the complexity and collaborative effort required to implement such nationwide schemes effectively.
The Deposit Return Scheme’s postponement signals the need for more strategic planning to ensure its successful implementation.
