SGF Position on Depost Return Scheme Exemption

Scottish Grocers’ Federation wish to clarify an inaccurate news report set out in The Grocer magazine last week (12th October 2022) which claimed that thousands of retailers would be set for a deposit return scheme exemption.

SGF Chief Executive Dr Pete Cheema OBE said: “Firstly, let me make it absolutely clear, Scottish Grocers’ Federation (SGF) has been and remains fully committed to a fit for purpose, world leading, deposit return scheme (DRS).

Convenience store operators have never said that they want to have all their stores exempt but rather want to be part of the scheme.

It is essential however that DRS remains cost neutral to Return Point Operators and does not leave them with an additional cost burden or put them out of business. As far as we understand, the First Minister and her government want the same.”

SGF consulted the Scottish Government and they further reiterated that: “Scotland’s deposit return scheme follows a return-to-retail model that ensures the accessibility of the scheme to all. The Regulations specifically allow for retailers to be able to apply for an exemption for operating a return point if they meet certain criteria. While this will be a decision for individual businesses to make themselves, we anticipate that some smaller retailers may choose to do so. We are keen to ensure this process is as straightforward as possible and are working with Zero Waste Scotland to deliver additional guidance to support retailers through the exemptions process.”