Fed on DRS
The dedicated Fed team is here to support and guide you through DRS.
The Fed has been a strong voice – working with members and representatives across retail – calling for DRS to be cost neutral for retailers to participate in.
Now that Phase 1 registration has commenced the Fed team will help support and guide independent retailers through the new legislation and changes required.
The Fed has been part of the DRS, since the outset. We are on the Advisory Board of Exchange for Change and have successfully called for a Retail Handling Fee that is as high as possible, as well as a grant scheme.
Our DRS involvement
DRS discussion panel (Video)
During the Fed’s Annual Conference 2026, we had a panel of experts talk about DRS and how it affects independent retailers.
Speaking up for retailers
We are on the Advisory Board of Exchange for Change and have successfully called for a Retail Handling Fee that is as high as possible, as well as a grant scheme.
Preparing for DRS launch
Whilst a lot of the key details on DRS have been decided, there is a long way to go still before DRS is launched.
Fed updates
Here are links to the Fed’s work on DRS earlier this year:
- Grants:
https://thefedonline.com/news/feds-national-president-backs-grant-for-drs-for-independent-retailers/
- Handling fees:
https://thefedonline.com/news/the-fed-gives-a-cautious-welcome-to-handling-fees-for-drs/
- Exchange for Change:
https://thefedonline.com/news/deposit-return-scheme-exchange-for-change-logo-confirmed-as-fed-members-urged-to-prepare/
- Fed panel:
https://thefedonline.com/news/feddrspanel/