Scottish DRS registration for stores to open in March

The registration process for independent retailers to sign up to Scotland’s upcoming deposit return scheme (DRS) is to open next month.

Scheme administrator Circularity Scotland Limited (CSL) confirmed the news in a message sent to interested businesses on 13 February, seen by Better Retailing.

As part of the process, stores will have to state whether they want to operate a manual return point or a reverse vending machine (RVM).

The scheme is set for implementation on 16 August, and will require shoppers to pay a 20p deposit when they buy a drink in a single-use container, which can then be later redeemed.

Last week, industry, retailers and trade bodies alike expressed concern to the Scottish government that nobody is ready for it, with the ACS’ chief executive, James Lowman warning “there are too many unknowns at this late stage”.

Drinks producers have until 28 February to register, however multiple suppliers have also called on the government for a ‘legal grace period’ due to confusion over regulations.