Exchange For Change, the industry-led organisation delivering the Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) across the UK, is inviting retailers to take part in a monthly survey to deepen understanding of how they are preparing for the scheme ahead of its launch in October 2027.
The anonymous survey will explore how prepared retailers feel, the steps they are taking ahead of the scheme launch, and where they may need further information or advice.
The insight gathered will help Exchange for Change tailor its communications, guidance and support to meet retailers’ evolving needs.
The survey takes approximately two to five minutes to complete, and participants can also choose to enter a prize draw to win up to £250 in Amazon vouchers.
Russell Davies, Exchange for Change Chief Executive, said: “The Retailer Readiness Survey aims to connect Exchange For Change directly with store owners and managers, so we can hear first-hand how they are preparing for the introduction of the DRS, and understand what more we can do to help them get their stores and staff ready for the launch.
“Retailers will play a fundamental role in the success of the DRS, which is why it is important for us to gather as much input and feedback as we can to help prepare them for the roll out of the scheme.
“Our teams will be closely monitoring the results of the Retailer Readiness Survey each month, and we hope to receive the views and insights from a wide variety of retailers from all corners of the UK.”
The Retailer Readiness Survey forms part of Exchange for Change’s wider programme of engagement and support for the retail sector.
In June, it announced £60 million in grant funding intended to help small, independent retailers meet the cost of installing Reverse Vending Machines. It also announced extended exemption criteria, giving more retailers the opportunity to apply for an exemption from operating a return point.
Exchange for Change also confirmed a tiered Return Handling Fee (RHF) in June, which will be paid to retailers for handling deposits to help cover costs associated with operating manual and automated return points.