Latest updates

Read the latest Deposit Return Scheme updates in food and drink manufacturing.

What is a Deposit Return Scheme (DRS)?

Deposit return schemes are used across the world as a way of encouraging more people to recycle drinks containers, such as bottles and cans.

They work by charging anyone who buys a drink a small deposit for the bottle or can that it comes in. They get this money back when they return the bottle or can to a collection point to be recycled.

Consumers will start paying a deposit at the point of purchase and redeem it through a reverse vending machine or designated return point.

DRS overview

All you need to know about deposit return schemes, including:

  • Background
  • Legislations and Consultations
  • Scope
  • Deposit and Material Flows
  • Deposit Management Organisation (DMO)
  • Implementation Timeline

Read the DRS overview

Get involved

Ask an expert

Our team of packaging experts is on hand to answer any queries you may have.

Contact Cat Hay

Contact Sabina Woloszyn

Packaging Task Force

The Packaging Task Force (PTF) shapes the FDF's overarching strategy and positioning on the use of packaging, particularly plastics, to enable food and drink manufacturers to have a stronger voice in the public and political debate. 

Find out about the Packaging Task Force

Stay up to date

The FDF’s Packaging Task Force email alerts are a useful way to keep sight of policy and forthcoming legislation related to packaging. 

'Watch committee' to sign up for these emails.

DRS support

Our affiliate members have technical expertise in all things packaging including:

Valpak

SLR

Ecosurety