Exchange For Change Confirms DRS Handling Fees Ahead of 2027 Launch
Exchange For Change has announced the handling fees for return point operators under the Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) set to launch in October 2027 across England, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. Manual return points will receive a handling fee of 3p per container, while automated return points using reverse vending machines will have a tiered payment structure. Operators will earn 5p per container for up to 225,000 eligible containers annually, with returns above that threshold receiving 1.3p per container. This announcement follows consultations with industry stakeholders and aims to provide clarity for retailers as they prepare for the scheme's implementation. The scheme is designed to encourage high return rates and support a circular economy by incentivizing the return of drinks containers. 
