- Certification confirms Reverse Vending Machines (RVMs) that meet the requirements for use in the UK Deposit Return Scheme (DRS)
- Retailers considering an RVM are advised to review the approved list before selecting a model
- New RVM Artwork Guidance published to support a consistent and recognisable approach for consumers across all certified machines
Exchange For Change, the industry-led organisation delivering the Deposit Return Scheme (DRS), has published the first list of certified Reverse Vending Machines (RVMs), supporting retailers as they prepare for the scheme’s launch on 1 October 2027.
Certification confirms that a machine is compatible with the RVM specification required to operate within the scheme, having undergone rigorous testing and assessment to reach the certification standard.
Retailers considering purchasing or leasing an RVM are advised to check the approved list before selecting a model. The list will be updated on an ongoing basis as new RVMs are certified.
Certification of the RVMs has been undertaken by a specialist assessment provider tasked with independently conducting the full certification process, which will remain ongoing to allow for new RVM suppliers to submit their machines for assessment.
Certification assesses a range of technical and operational requirements to ensure machines can operate effectively within the DRS, including the identification and acceptance of eligible containers, fraud prevention, connectivity with scheme systems, accessibility requirements and the secure handling of transaction data.
Alongside the publication of the first certified machines, Exchange For Change has also published new RVM Artwork Guidance to support a consistent and recognisable approach across RVMs.
The guidance provides approved branding, signage and consumer instructions for certified machine models, helping retailers create clear, recognisable return points and making it easier for people to identify where containers can be returned and redeem their 20p deposit.
By supporting a consistent look and consumer experience across return locations, it will help ensure people can confidently navigate the Deposit Return Scheme from day one.
Russell Davies, Exchange For Change Chief Executive Officer, said: “Publishing the first list of certified RVMs is an important step in helping retailers prepare for the launch of the Deposit Return Scheme in October 2027.
“Certification provides confidence that approved machines have met the requirements needed to operate within the scheme and gives retailers greater certainty as they consider their options.
“Retailers considering an RVM can now review the approved list and discuss the options available with suppliers. The list is designed to help retailers of all sizes make informed decisions ahead of the scheme launch, while the new Artwork Guidance provides retailers with approved branding that can be adopted alongside their own, helping to create a consistent and recognisable approach across the scheme.
“We will continue to provide guidance and support as preparations for scheme go-live progress, including through the grant scheme available to eligible small independent retailers to support the purchase of an RVM.”
Each RVM submitted for assessment is tested on 77 separate requirements in order to pass the certification process, providing retailers with confidence that a certified machine is not only robust, but will be recognised as part of the DRS.
The publication of the first certified machines forms part of Exchange For Change’s wider programme of work to support retailers preparing for the DRS. Retailers can find further information and guidance, including information on return point exemptions, details of grant funding for eligible independent retailers, and information on how to register for the scheme at www.exchangeforchange.co.uk.
The list of certified RVMs is available to view here.
The RVM Artwork Guidelines are available to view here.