Exchange for Change, the not-for-profit organisation delivering the Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) across England, Scotland and Northern Ireland, is launching a free introductory webinar series to help businesses prepare for the scheme’s introduction in October 2027.
The first series of ‘DRS 101’ webinars will run on nine dates throughout February and March, with more dates to be announced for the future sessions being held in 2026.
Each 45-minute webinar offers an introduction to the scheme – what it is, who’s involved and what the DRS means for businesses across the supply chain – with sessions designed to build awareness and give businesses the confidence to start planning. The webinars also offer a chance for industry to ask questions with a live Q&A.
Featuring speakers from the Exchange for Change team, the series will explain responsibilities facing drinks producers, retailers, wholesalers and hospitality outlets, helping attendees understand what action they may need to take ahead of the scheme coming into force.
Understanding how the DRS will operate is vital for businesses that place or sell drinks in PET plastic, steel and aluminium containers between 150ml and three litres. With just over 18 months to go to the DRS launch, Exchange for Change is prioritising early support to ensure relevant businesses understand what’s changing and have time to prepare.
Russell Davies, CEO of Exchange for Change, says: “The DRS 101 webinars are a key part of providing businesses with clear, accessible guidance to help them plan ahead. They are designed to support any organisation involved in the production, distribution or sale of drinks by explaining what’s changing, what’s expected of them and how to prepare.
“The webinars will also provide businesses with the opportunity to ask us questions about the DRS and provide feedback that can help inform how the scheme is developed.
“This is just one part of our wider engagement programme. We’re working closely with businesses of all sizes as well as trade associations and a broad range of stakeholders to help us ensure that we deliver a scheme that works for everyone.”
Registration details
The 45-minute webinars with further time for Q&As will be delivered via Microsoft Teams. They are free to attend and will run on the following dates:
- 10:30-11:45 Tuesday February 17
- 09:30-10:45 Thursday February 19
- 12.30-13:45 Monday February 23
- 14:30-15:45 Wednesday February 25
- 12:30-13:45 Tuesday March 3
- 10:30-11:45 Thursday March 5
- 10:30-11.45 Monday March 9
- 09:30-10:45 Wednesday March 11
- 10:30-11:45 Tuesday March 17
- 13:30-14:45 Thursday March 19
Anyone interested in attending can register for their chosen date and time via the Exchange for Change website: https://exchangeforchange.co.uk/webinars
A recording will also be available to download from the Exchange for Change website once all live sessions have concluded.
