The UK Deposit Management Organisation Ltd (UK DMO) has been confirmed as the official operator for the Deposit Return Schemes (DRS) covering single-use plastic and metal drinks containers in England, Northern Ireland and Scotland.
The appointment, made by the UK Government and the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA), has also been supported by Scottish Ministers.
UK DMO is a not-for-profit, business-led organisation created to deliver what is being described as a landmark environmental infrastructure programme.
The new DRS is set to launch in October 2027 and is expected to reduce litter, increase recycling, and cut carbon emissions significantly across the three nations.
The initiative is designed to tackle the environmental impact of an estimated 6.5 billion drinks containers discarded each year in the UK, which currently make up 43% of all litter.
A scheme designed to reduce waste and boost recycling
Under the new system, consumers will pay a small deposit when purchasing drinks in PET plastic, steel or aluminium containers ranging from 150ml to 3 litres. This deposit will be fully refunded when the empty container is returned for recycling.
The DRS is expected to bring substantial economic benefits alongside its environmental aims.
A report by The Countryside Charity suggests the scheme could create up to 4,000 jobs and unlock more than £1 billion in industry investment over the next three years. These roles and funding will support key infrastructure such as logistics, storage and reprocessing.
UK DMO is now beginning engagement with stakeholders including the three governments, businesses, producers, retailers, environmental organisations and consumer groups. Interested parties are invited to register for updates via the UK DMO website.
Board draws on UK and international industry experience
The UK DMO’s governance structure features representatives from across the drinks and retail industries, nominated by trade associations in England, Northern Ireland and Scotland.
Board members include figures from major companies such as Coca-Cola Europacific Partners, Heineken UK, Lidl, Tesco, Co-op, Radnor Hills and Shepley Spring.
The organisation is currently recruiting an independent Chair and non-executive directors to ensure balanced oversight. Many of the current Board members bring knowledge from countries where deposit return schemes are already in operation.
The DMO will be responsible for all aspects of the scheme’s design and implementation, from producer registration and fraud prevention to public communication and financial oversight.
Industry groups welcome appointment and call for collaboration
The announcement has been met with support from a wide range of industry organisations. The British Soft Drinks Association described the move as a “key milestone” and highlighted the potential for job creation and investment.
The British Retail Consortium emphasised the importance of retail involvement and expressed confidence in the DMO’s ability to deliver a scheme that works for businesses and consumers.
Trade bodies representing convenience stores, wholesalers, soft drinks manufacturers and the natural source waters sector echoed these views, underlining the need for ongoing dialogue, practical solutions, and strong engagement with retailers and local communities.
The Scottish Grocers’ Federation and Northern Ireland Food and Drink Association both noted the importance of addressing regional priorities and ensuring the scheme is accessible and effective across the supply chain.
With just over two years until the scheme’s launch, attention now turns to detailed planning and collaboration.
UK DMO has stated it aims to build a fair, efficient and easy-to-use system that supports the UK’s transition to a more circular economy.
