This meant retailers were provided with clarity to help them prepare for the scheme’s rollout in October 2027.
Following the announcement, the British Independent Retailers Association (Bira) has warned that the new legislation could inadvertently disadvantage smaller high street retailers, raising “significant concerns” about the practical implications of the scheme.
Under the new regulations, retailers selling drinks in single-use containers will be required to host return points for these containers unless they qualify for an exemption.
While shops under 100m² in urban areas will be exempt, many independent retailers will still need to accommodate return facilities and storage areas for collected containers.
Bira said the scheme will add more costs to running a shop at a time when retailers are already facing unprecedented pressures.
It highlighted space as a key challenge, particularly with smaller shops accommodating self-return machines and the storage of returns.
“Most recycling will likely take place in the large supermarkets on retail parks, potentially driving even more footfall away from our town centres as consumers combine bottle returns with their shopping trips,” said Andrew Goodacre, chief executive of Bira.
While the association supports environmental initiatives, it emphasises the need for careful consideration of the scheme’s impact on independent retailers and high street vitality.
No comments yet