Preparing for Exchange for Change

The roadmap for the UK’s Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) is becoming clearer. While the official launch is set for 1st October 2027, 2026 is shaping up to be the critical year for preparation. For PGMA members, understanding these changes now is vital to ensuring a smooth transition for your business and your customers.

A New Identity: Exchange for Change

The organisation formerly known as the UK Deposit Management Organisation (DMO) has officially rebranded as Exchange for Change.

This new name represents the core of the initiative: a simple transaction - exchanging an empty container for a deposit refund - that drives a massive environmental shift. CEO Russell Davies has emphasised that this brand is designed to be the "face" of the scheme, making it easily recognisable for consumers across Scotland and the rest of the UK.

Identifying In-Scope Products

A new brand icon has been unveiled and will soon become a mandatory feature on all eligible packaging. This icon is designed to help your customers immediately identify which bottles and cans carry a deposit.

What is included? The scheme covers PET plastic bottles, steel cans, and aluminium cans (150ml to 3 litres).

Note for Scottish Retailers: To ensure a unified approach across the UK, glass containers are not included in the scheme at this time.

Your Role and Responsibilities

As a grocery or convenience retailer, you will likely serve as a vital return point in the circular economy. This involves:

• Applying the Deposit: Charging the set fee (expected to be around 20p) at the checkout.

• Processing Returns: Issuing refunds when customers return eligible, empty containers.

• Secure Storage: Keeping collected materials safe until they are picked up by the scheme administrator.

Protections for Independent Stores

The PGMA understands that space and labor are your most precious commodities. Several safeguards are in place to support independent retailers:

• Small Store Exemptions: Shops in urban areas with a retail footprint under 100m² are expected to be automatically exempt from hosting a return point, though you may volunteer to participate if it benefits your footfall.

• Proximity Exemptions: If your shop is located very close to another established return point, you may be eligible for an exemption.

• Handling Fees: To compensate you for the time and space required to manage these containers, retailers will receive a handling fee for every unit processed.

What’s Coming in 2026?

Throughout the coming year, Exchange for Change will release the final fine print. This will include:

1. Technical Specs: Final requirements for Reverse Vending Machines (RVMs) and digital reporting systems.

2. Logo Guidance: In the coming weeks, detailed instructions will be released regarding how the new logo must appear on labels.

3. Summer Updates: Sector-specific guidance tailored for independent retailers is expected by Summer 2026.

The PGMA Commitment

We are dedicated to ensuring that the voice of the independent retailer isn't lost in this transition. We recommend that members begin reviewing their current floor plans now to determine how a manual or automated return area might be integrated into your space.

We will continue to monitor every update from Exchange for Change and the various UK governments to keep you ahead of the curve.