Major UK Supermarkets Launch Cashback Scheme for Bottle Returns
In a significant environmental initiative, leading UK supermarkets including Tesco, Asda, Morrisons, and Sainsbury's will begin paying households cash for returning empty drinks bottles. The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) has officially announced the Deposit Return Scheme, which is set to roll out across England, Scotland, and Northern Ireland starting in October 2027.
How the Deposit Return Scheme Works
Under this new scheme, consumers will receive cash payments when they bring back eligible empty drinks containers to designated collection points. Importantly, no receipt is required to participate, making the process straightforward and accessible for all households. Collection points will be established not only at the major supermarkets but also at grocery stores, convenience stores, and newsagents that sell drinks, ensuring widespread availability across the country.
Eligible Containers and Materials
The scheme specifically targets single-use drinks containers to promote recycling and reduce waste. Eligible items must meet the following criteria:
- Be made wholly or mainly from polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic, steel, or aluminium.
- Have a capacity between 150 millilitres and 3 litres.
- Be designed for single use or short-term use.
Containers with lids made from other materials are still included in the scheme. However, the deposit will not apply to containers that are not single-use or are made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE), which is commonly used for milk bottles.
Background and Implementation Timeline
Defra outlined these plans in the Environmental Improvement Plan (EIP) 2025, published in December, as part of broader efforts to enhance sustainability and waste management. The scheme aims to incentivize recycling by providing direct financial rewards to consumers, thereby encouraging more responsible disposal of drinks containers.
With the implementation date set for October 2027, supermarkets and retailers are expected to prepare their infrastructure and systems to support the collection points. This initiative represents a collaborative effort between government bodies and the retail sector to address environmental concerns and promote a circular economy.
As the launch approaches, further details on exact payment amounts and operational guidelines are anticipated to be released by Defra and participating retailers. This scheme is poised to become a key component of the UK's environmental strategy, offering households a tangible benefit for contributing to recycling efforts.
