Exchange for Change, the organisation delivering the Deposit Return Scheme (DRS), has opened the first phase of registration for retailer return points ahead of the scheme launching in October 2027.
What do I need to do as a retailer?
Retailers that are required to register should now create an account and complete Phase 1 registration through the Exchange for Change registration portal here, before 31st December.
Phase 1 is designed to gather core business information, including:
- Your Company Registration Number
- Your registered company address, as recorded with Companies House
- Your primary contact's name, email address and job role
- Your business name and, where applicable, trading name
- Your business address and mailing address
Once you've submitted your details, you'll receive a registration reference number.
How do I know if I need to register?
Retailers in urban areas with a retail space under 100m2 are automatically exempt from operating a return point and therefore do not need to register unless they intend on offering one.
Urban retailers between 100m2 and 199m2 of sales area and rural retailers under 200m2 of sales area can apply for exemption from offering a return point. However, these retailers must still complete the registration process - further details on how to apply for an exemption will be shared shortly.
What will happen next?
Phase 2 registration will open in January 2027, when businesses will be asked to provide further information.
