20p deposit value is confirmed for DRS

Exchange for Change has confirmed that a flat 20p deposit will apply to all in-scope containers under the upcoming Deposit Return Scheme (DRS).

The scheme administrator for the UK (Scotland, England, Wales and Northern Ireland) confirmed the deposit will cover all single-use drinks containers made from PET plastic, steel and aluminium, ranging from 150ml to 3 litres.

The 20p deposit will be added at the point of purchase and fully refunded to consumers when empty containers are returned.

This announcement marks a further step towards the UK-wide rollout of DRS, with implementation scheduled for October 2027.