UK Deposit Management Organisation launches ‘Exchange for Change’ trading name

The not-for-profit appointed to oversee the launch and operation of the Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) in England, Wales and Northern Ireland has officially launched their 'Exchange for Change' trading name and brand identity.  

The new name reflects the core purpose of the scheme - for consumers to return empty drinks containers and reclaim their deposit, in order to drive up recycling rates of in-scope bottles and cans and reduce littering.

The announcement on 26 January explained that the branding and scheme logo will need to appear on all eligible drinks containers and return points, with exact labelling obligations and guidance for producers and retailers to follow.

This will include confirmation around placement, sizing and approved colour formats to enable businesses to begin the necessary preparations ahead of the scheme’s introduction in October 2027.

An important step forward 

Early clarity for producers is essential, and the introduction of the new trading name and brand identity is an important step toward giving businesses the certainty they need to prepare for compliance. We now look forward to further detail on key elements of the scheme, particularly around cost structures, reporting arrangements and retailer obligations.

However, another important area where clarity is still needed is the extent to which Wales will align with the scheme being implemented across England, Scotland and Northern Ireland. The Welsh Government has been clear in its intention to include glass within its DRS and has sought an exemption from the UK Internal Market Act to proceed on that basis.

Understanding how this will be resolved, and what it will mean for producers operating across the UK, remains a key question.

Stakeholders can follow Exchange for Change and keep abreast of all updates on their website here.