Exchange For Change opens registration for Deposit Return Scheme  

(The Fed’s National President, Hemanshu Patel, has registered for DRS at his Kent business)

The Fed is urging members to register for Phase 1 of the Deposit Return Scheme (DRS), following the launch of the online registration portal, even if they may qualify for an exemption from hosting a DRS return point when the scheme goes live in October 2027.

The registration portal is available here: www.registration.exchangeforchange.co.uk

Hemanshu Patel, National President of The Fed, said: “As a retailer myself, I have already registered my business and would encourage members to do the same as soon as possible. Phase 1 is a straightforward process, and registering now is an important first step in preparing for the scheme. Members who have questions can also contact The Fed’s Political Engagement team for advice and support.

“The Fed remains in regular contact with Exchange for Change, which is responsible for administering the registration portal and the scheme itself. We are continuing to press for a DRS that is as straightforward as possible for independent retailers, particularly small shops, which will play an important role in the scheme’s success.”

According to Exchange for Change, the Deposit Management Organisation responsible for administering DRS, Phase 1 is designed to establish the core business information needed for registration and should be completed as soon as possible.

At this stage, businesses only need to provide basic information, including company details, primary contact information, trading names and relevant business and mailing addresses. More detailed information will be collected during Phase 2 next year.

Key details for retailers

• Phase 1 requires only basic business information and is intended to help retailers prepare ahead of the scheme’s launch in October 2027.
• Businesses are being encouraged to complete registration as soon as possible.
• Shops under 200 sqm in rural areas and those between 100 and 200 sqm in urban areas may be eligible to apply for an exemption from participation at a later stage. The Fed encourages retailers to consider their options carefully.
• Retailers in urban areas who wish to participate in the scheme should register.

Russell Davies, Chief Executive of Exchange for Change, said: “Opening our registration portal is another important milestone as we work with businesses across the drinks supply chain to prepare for the launch of the Deposit Return Scheme in October 2027.

“We are designing the scheme to be as clear and straightforward as possible. Phase 1 is a simple process that gives producers and retailers an opportunity to start registering now, by providing the core information we need before more detailed information is collected in Phase 2 next year.

“We encourage businesses to complete Phase 1 as soon as possible, and will continue to provide guidance and support throughout the registration process as preparations for the scheme’s launch progress.”

For further information about The Fed’s work on the Deposit Return Scheme for recycling bottles and cans, please contact the Fed’s Political Engagement Coordinator, Douglas Oliver, at douglas.oliver@nfrn.org.uk.