Exchange For Change publishes certified reverse vending machine list for UK DRS
Exchange For Change, the industry-led body delivering the UK's deposit return scheme, has published its first list of reverse vending machines (RVMs) certified for the scheme, alongside artwork guidance for branding and signage. Each machine was tested against 77 requirements by an independent assessor. The scheme is due to launch on 1 October 2027, and intended producer fees are zero until December 2028.
Why this mattersCertification clarifies which RVM models retailers can safely procure, removing a key uncertainty for UK retailers planning deposit return infrastructure ahead of 2027.
- Exchange For Change has published its first list of reverse vending machines certified for the UK deposit return scheme.
- Each machine was tested against 77 separate requirements by an independent specialist assessment provider.
- The UK deposit return scheme is set to launch on 1 October 2027.
- Intended producer fees are zero from October 2027 to December 2028.
- From January 2029 producer fees are expected to rise to USD 0.008 (GBP 0.006) per unit for aluminium and steel containers and USD 0.031 (GBP 0.023) per unit for PET containers.
- A grant scheme is available to help eligible small independent retailers buy a reverse vending machine.
- Certified models include those from Tomra, RVM Systems, EcoVend, Recyclever, Envipco, Sielaff and Ripet
- The deposit per container under the UK scheme is 20 pence (about USD 0.27)
- 54 reverse vending machine models from seven suppliers are certified: Tomra, RVM Systems, EcoVend, Recyclever, Envipco, Sielaff and Ropet
- The independent assessor named as certification body is PPS Sustainability & Circularity
- Certification does not guarantee machine performance; retailers remain responsible for agreeing performance terms with suppliers