Addressing a meeting of the Welsh Cross Party Group on Small Shops, ACS has today (12 July) shared some of the challenges of introducing a scheme that will be workable and sustainable for consumers, retailers, and suppliers. In addition, they have provided detailed guidance, originally drafted for Scotland, on the considerations and adaptations that retailers must make when providing return points in store.
To ensure a well-designed scheme, ACS outlines several guiding principles. Firstly, the scheme should be consistent across the UK. This consistency will help streamline operations and make it easier for consumers and suppliers to participate. Secondly, the scheme must be cost neutral for retailers at worst, ensuring that it does not place an undue financial burden on businesses. Furthermore, glass should not be included in the scheme, as its handling and potential breakage present significant challenges.
Another important consideration is the strategic mapping of return points. These points should not be mandated based solely on business type or size; instead, a broader approach that factors in convenience and accessibility for consumers should be taken. Lastly, the safety of both customers and colleagues should be prioritized throughout the scheme’s implementation.
James Lowman, ACS chief executive, expressed support for the Welsh Government’s plans to introduce a deposit return scheme to improve recycling rates. However, he emphasized the need to ensure inter-operability across the UK and draw lessons from the Scottish scheme to guarantee the sustainability of the proposed scheme in Wales. Given the ambitious target of implementing the scheme by 2025, careful attention to detail is crucial to ensure its success for all stakeholders.
During the meeting, Julie James MS, minister for climate change, provided an update on the Welsh Government’s DRS plans, highlighting the efforts made to address the concerns of small shops. It is worth noting that the UK’s earliest potential implementation date for a deposit return scheme is October 2025, as the Scottish scheme encountered delays due to Westminster’s reservations regarding the inclusion of glass containers. However, the Welsh government remains committed to including glass within their DRS regulations.
For further insights on the implementation of a deposit return scheme, ACS government relations director Ed Woodall recently published an informative article. Titled “Nine Reflections on DRS Implementation So Far,” it offers valuable perspectives and can be accessed on the ACS website [here](https://www.acs.org.uk/news/chief-executives-blog-nine-reflections-drs-implementation-so-far).