The UK government’s Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) faces another delay, now pushed to 2026.
- A meeting of UK government representatives and industry bodies concluded the original October 2025 start date is unfeasible.
- Supermarket leaders urge the government to reevaluate the DRS, citing potentially exorbitant costs.
- A proposed 20p charge on drink containers is central to the scheme, intended to promote recycling.
- Retailers and associations stress the need for careful planning to avoid impacts on businesses and consumers.
The UK government’s Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) has hit another snag, as recent discussions among all UK governments and industry stakeholders revealed that the proposed start date of October 2025 is not feasible. This decision underscores the ongoing challenges in implementing the scheme, which aims to enhance recycling by imposing a charge on drink containers.
During recent talks, supermarket executives expressed significant concerns, noting that the DRS in its current form could cost retailers around £1.8 billion—substantially more than previous estimates. Such financial implications have prompted calls for a substantial reevaluation of the plan, with industry insiders advocating for a ‘fundamental rethink.’ One source emphasised, “It’s become clear that October 2025 is a non-starter.”
The scheme involves applying a 20p deposit on beverage containers, refundable upon return. This mechanism is designed to incentivise recycling among consumers, thereby reducing waste. However, industry voices warn that, despite its environmental goals, the execution requires meticulous planning and support from both government and businesses to succeed.
The Association of Convenience Stores (ACS) has been vocal in its calls for the government to reconsider the rollout timeline, highlighting the necessity for a robust infrastructural foundation. ACS CEO James Lowman stated, “We cannot risk rushing out half-baked policies that could end up harming retailers, consumers, the industry and ultimately the environment.”
The DRS was earlier delayed in Scotland, with similar warnings from industry leaders about moving forward without Westminster’s cooperation. This broader hesitation reflects the complexity of coordinating such a nationwide initiative, where timing and collaborative effort are paramount.
The recurring delays of the Deposit Return Scheme highlight the critical need for strategic planning and government-industry collaboration to ensure its success.
