Trials of a digital deposit return scheme (DDRS) are extending to convenience stores in London, following the success of an earlier pilot in Brecon, Wales.

The Scan, Recycle, Reward scheme will be extended to Enfield, London, for six to eight weeks in September. Residents will be asked to scan a barcode on single-use plastic drinks containers, where they can be returned to kerbside recycling points or four participating supermarket convenience stores for a cash reward.

Community-led DRS trial praised by stores for attracting footfall

Duncan Midwood, DDRS Alliance co-founder, told Better Retailing the firm wanted to test if the scheme could work in a major city through the extension.

Of the 18,331 containers returned during the 16-week trial in Brecon, 1,363 (7.4%) were taken to a participating Spar, Premier and Holland & Barrett. The retailers said it increased footfall and there were no challenges with storage.

However, consumers questioned the convenience due to queuing and having to wait for assistance from staff.

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