Deposit Return Scheme

UnifyOrdering Team -


In a significant stride towards sustainability, Ireland is set to implement its Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) on February 1st, 2024. This initiative aims to boost recycling efforts by introducing a financial incentive for consumers to return beverage containers. For suppliers in the food industry, compliance with this legislation is crucial.

Understanding the DRS

The Deposit Return Scheme primarily covers various beverage containers, encouraging responsible disposal and recycling practices. It's essential for suppliers to grasp the intricacies of the scheme to ensure seamless compliance.

Supplier Compliance Requirements

Suppliers play a pivotal role in the success of the DRS. Compliance involves maintaining accurate records and adapting to new pricing structures that accommodate the deposit system. Failure to comply not only risks financial penalties but also undermines the broader environmental goals.

Pricing and Deposit Handling

Adjusting pricing structures to incorporate the deposit system is a key step for drinks distributors. The drinks containers included in the Scheme are PET plastic bottles, aluminum and steel cans between 150mls and 3 liters. A deposit of €15c will apply to containers from 150ml to 500ml inclusive and a deposit of €25c for containers over 500mls to 3 liters inclusive.

The deposit is not subject to VAT.

What is subject to the DRS?

  • Plastic bottles, capacity: 150ml – 3 liters
    All eligible drinks containers will display the Return logo, making it easy to identify what is included in the Deposit Return Scheme. Drinks containers must be returned empty and undamaged.
  • Aluminum and steel cans, capacity: 150ml – 3 liters
    All eligible drinks containers will display the Return logo, making it easy to identify what is included in the Deposit Return Scheme.

Drinks containers must be returned empty and undamaged.

What cannot be returned

Not every drink container is eligible for Deposit Return. Only drinks in PET plastic bottles, aluminum & steel cans from 150ml to 3 liters are included in the Scheme.

Remember, all drink containers included in the scheme will feature the Return logo.

The following are NOT included in the Deposit Return Scheme: Glass drinks containers, All dairy products. Eg. Milk, yogurt drinks

These containers will not have a Return logo, but should still be recycled.

Seamless integration with UnifyOrdering

At UnifyOrdering, we understand the challenges that come with adapting to new legislation. Our platform is designed to seamlessly integrate with the DRS, providing suppliers with the tools they need to comply effortlessly. From managing orders to tracking deposits, UnifyOrdering streamlines the process, making compliance a breeze.

How we can work together

As Ireland embraces the Deposit Return Scheme, suppliers must proactively address compliance requirements. Accurate record-keeping, pricing adjustments, and updated product information are key elements in this journey. UnifyOrdering stands as your partner in this transition, offering a comprehensive solution to navigate the DRS with ease.

Ready to embrace the future of sustainable practices? Contact UnifyOrdering today. Our platform not only simplifies compliance but also enhances the efficiency of your ordering process, contributing to a greener and more connected food industry.

check out the official website for further details at https://re-turn.ie/#whatToReturn