Millions of shoppers across the UK will face a new 20p deposit on drinks bottles and cans from October 1, 2027. The money will be refunded when customers return their empty containers to participating collection points.
How the New 20p Deposit Will Work
Under the Deposit Return Scheme (DRS), shoppers will pay an additional 20p when purchasing drinks in eligible plastic bottles and metal cans. The deposit is refundable, meaning customers can recover the full amount by returning the empty packaging.
According to Express.co.uk, households in Bradford will be among those able to use collection points at major supermarkets, including Tesco, Asda, Morrisons, and Sainsbury’s.
Convenience stores and newsagents selling drinks will also be part of the collection network, giving customers more places to return their containers.
No purchase receipt will be required to claim the refund. Depending on the collection arrangements, customers will receive their money through cash, vouchers, or card payments.
The system is designed to encourage people to return used drinks containers rather than discard them with general household waste or as litter.
Why Supermarkets Are Preparing for the Change
The scheme is being delivered by Exchange for Change, which has confirmed that a flat 20p deposit will apply to all containers covered by the program.
The decision gives retailers and drinks producers a clearer basis for preparing their collection systems.
Travis Way, managing director at reverse vending machine specialist EcoVend, part of circular economy company Reconomy, told The Express:
“While much of the industry had anticipated a flat 20p deposit, its confirmation is a helpful step forward for businesses preparing for the UK’s Deposit Return Scheme.”
He explained how a standardized charge could make the system easier to operate.
“A flat rate also brings practical benefits for businesses by simplifying implementation, reducing administrative complexity and supporting more consistent system design across retailers, producers and return operators.”
The scheme will require retailers to prepare return infrastructure, manage deposits, and explain the new process to customers.
“Having greater clarity at this stage allows retailers, producers and operators to plan with more confidence, particularly when it comes to infrastructure, cashflow and customer engagement.”
Dear Tesco, Asda, Sainsbury’s, Lid, Aldi, Waitrose, Morrisons, and all other stores that have self checkout. You are heading towards almost exclusively self-checkout now. The lady checking receipts at the exit was stopping everyone. I didn’t choose to participate in that nonsense, I had already 🛒 filled my cart 🛒 emptied my cart 🛒 scanned the items 🛒refilled my cart and so I just skipped the exit line and left. I heard her saying "umm – Excuse me " as I kept walking and raised the receipt above my head, leaving the store. You can either trust me to do self-checkout, or you can put your cashiers back in place like it used to be. I’m not interested in proving that I did your job for you. • If you want me to be a cashier with no training then that’s vour problem not mine. • Keep employing young people and give them job opportunities. YOU DON’T PAY ME TO SCAN MY OWN SHOPPING. YOU DON’T GIVE ME STAFF DISCOUNT FOR WORKING FOR YOU. Signed ….All of us These are jobs that are needed to have for young and old
— The English Crusader (@andrewc44104127) November 10, 2026
What Shoppers Should Expect Before October 2027
The October 1, 2027, launch will cover England, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. Wales is developing a separate deposit return system, which is also expected to use a 20p deposit.
Although the charge will increase the amount customers initially pay for eligible drinks, it is not intended to become a permanent additional cost for those who return their containers.
Way pointed to existing European programs as examples of how a single deposit amount can work.
“A simple, uniform deposit should also support consumer understanding and mirrors other well-established European schemes.”
Countries including Germany and Sweden already operate deposit return systems that encourage consumers to bring back empty drinks packaging.
The UK rollout still involves preparation across the retail and recycling sectors.
“With further detail still to come and the Deposit Management Organisation continuing to develop the framework, this remains a critical period for industry preparation.”
Way also emphasized the role of retailers in helping shoppers understand the process.
“Continued engagement and education with retailers will be key to ensuring a smooth and effective rollout.”
The planned scheme aims to reduce litter and increase recycling rates by collecting empty plastic bottles and metal cans through dedicated return points, with the confirmed deposit set at 20p per eligible container.
