Exchange For Change has confirmed the return handling fees that will be paid to return point operators under the Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) across England, Scotland and Northern Ireland when the scheme launches in October 2027.

Following consultation with industry stakeholders, manual return points will receive a handling fee of 3p per container returned.

For automated return points using reverse vending machines (RVMs), a tiered payment structure has been agreed. Operators will receive 5p per container for up to 225,000 eligible containers returned annually, with returns above that threshold attracting a fee of 1.3p per container.

EcoVend, part of Reconomy, managing director Tarvis Way said the confirmation represented an important milestone for businesses preparing for DRS.

“For retailers, having greater clarity on the financial framework now will help support investment decisions and operational planning ahead of the scheme’s launch in 2027,” Way said.

Subscribe to Grocery Gazette for free

Sign up here to get the latest grocery and food news each morning

“It is encouraging to see a tiered approach that recognises the different realities facing retailers of varying sizes and return volumes.

“Reflecting the distinction between manual return points and reverse vending machine operators should help ensure the scheme remains practical and accessible across a diverse retail landscape.

“The commitment to review fees before launch and on an ongoing basis will also be important.

Way added: “As businesses gain experience of operating within the scheme, it is vital that the fee structure continues to reflect real-world costs and supports high levels of participation, helping to deliver the strong return rates needed to create a more circular economy.”

The announcement comes as the latest update to the scheme, scheduled to launch across England, Scotland and Northern Ireland in October 2027, with retailers and operators continuing preparations for its rollout.

In April, Exchange for Change confirmed that a flat 20p deposit will apply to all in-scope drinks containers, after research conducted by the not-for-profit scheme administrator found deposit levels below 15p were unlikely to provide a strong enough incentive to meet the target of returning 90% of containers within three years