Flat 20p deposit to be paid on single-use drinks containers under DRS

A flat 20p deposit will be payable on all single-use drinks containers affected by the incoming deposit return scheme (DRS) in England, Scotland and Northern Ireland,

The charge, which will be applied to PET plastic, steel and aluminium containers between 150ml and three-litres at the point of purchase, will be fully refundable to consumers when the containers are returned.

Exchange for Change, the organisation delivering the DRS, has confirmed that the flat 20p deposit will take effect when the scheme launches in October 2027.

Russell Davies, Exchange for Change CEO, said: “The deposit value is a pivotal part of how the deposit return scheme will work in practice. That’s why we’ve engaged widely with industry, undertaken extensive market research and in-depth analysis on how schemes work in other countries.

“This work has identified that a flat 20p deposit is the most proportionate and sustainable amount for the UK.

“Confirming this now, with just under 18 months to go until the DRS is live, will help producers and retailers with their planning and preparation for the scheme, and we will continue to support them closely throughout this process.”