Exchange For Change announce Return Handing Fees for the UK Deposit Return Scheme - SGF

UK DRS administrators, Exchange For Change, have today announced the remuneration for retailers taking part in the scheme as a Return Point Operator. 

Stores operating a manual return system will receive a flat rate of 3p per container. While those using a Reverse Vending Machine will receive 5p (Tier 1) per container, for the first 225,000 containers each year, and 1.3p (Tier 2) for each subsequent item.

SGF understands that the fees announced today will be subject to review before launch and in the months following the go live date, in October 2027.

It is also expected that more information will be provided on the details of the scheme in the coming months. Such as further information on the support grant for independent retailers seeking to purchase/hire an RVM, collection requirements and exemption criteria.

SGF Chief Executive, Dr Pete Cheema OBE, said: “This is a major milestone for the scheme, and the most important announcement for convenience retailers to date. However, we are concerned that the Fee will not fully cover the expense of running an RVM for some convenience stores.

“The intention of DRS is to be cost neutral for retailers taking part in the scheme. Retailers should be able to fully understand the costs involved and the expected returns, so that they can make an informed decision for their business.

“DRS will soon become an essential service for the communities we serve, and it’s vital that the Handling Fee is fair, so that our members have the opportunity to take part without having to add yet another cost burden to their business.   

“We very much welcome the extensive engagement that we have had with Exchange For Change throughout this process, and we are working hard to ensure that the voice of our sector is listened to and taken on board. EFC must look again at the Fee and account for the full costs of staffing, cleaning, servicing, and loss of premium floor space for all retailers, to ensure they are getting a fair settlement.”