The drinks and wider food and packaging industry has been reacting to the appointment of a new industry body charged with running the UK’s first deposit return scheme.
The government yesterday confirmed it had appointed an industry coalition called the UK Deposit Management Organisation (UK DMO) to run the £1.13bn DRS scheme, due to launch in October 2027.
This is what people had to say about it.
Jim Bligh, director of corporate affairs & packaging, Food & Drink Federation
“We warmly welcome the appointment of the Deposit Management Organisation for the UK’s deposit return scheme. Deposit return schemes 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.”
Anne Godfrey, CEO, GS1 UK
“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.
“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.”
Sondre Henningsgård, UK managing director, Tomra
“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.”
Elise Seibold, chief operating officer, Suntory Beverage & Food GB&I
“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.”
Simon Oldham, managing director, Highland Spring Group
“We are delighted that the DRS DMO application has been approved. Along with other members, our energy and focus will now be on supporting and launching the most efficient, well-run scheme which delivers for consumers, businesses, and the environment. Ensuring interoperability across the four nations remains a critical priority and we will continue to make the case to the Welsh government on the need for alignment on scheme implementation.”
David Gudgeon, head of external affairs, Reconomy Connect
“The appointment of UK DMO as scheme administrator for the government’s deposit return scheme 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.”
Claire Shrewsbury, director insights and innovation, Wrap
“Wrap supports a well-designed deposit return scheme 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.”
Sarah Horner, UK and Ireland director, Reloop
“We are delighted that the vital deposit return scheme 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 deposit return scheme 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.”
Kinvara Carey, general manager, Natural Source Waters Association
“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.”
James Lowman, CEO, Association of Convenience Stores
“This is a major step towards the delivery of a deposit return scheme 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.”
Emma McClarkin, CEO, British Beer & Pub Association
“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 deposit return scheme. 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.”
Michael Bell, executive director, Northern Ireland Food & Drink Association
“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 Deposit Management Organisation as the delivery of the scheme progresses.”
Dr Pete Cheema, CEO, Scottish Grocers’ Federation
“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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