ACS

ACS has welcomed the extensions to the weight exemption for retailers under the Batteries Directive. The Government’s announcement means that retailers selling more than 32kg of batteries per year (equivalent to approximately 320 packs of AA batteries) will have to provide recycling facilities to collect used batteries. The Government has increased this from 16kg following pressure from ACS.

ACS Chief Executive James Lowman said: “A higher exemption to the Batteries Directive is to be welcomed. However, we still do not believe that this goes far enough. An exemption of 32kg cuts right across the convenience store sector and will make it confusing and burdensome to retailers to know whether they are included under the directive or not.

“This is an onerous policy that will come in next February whilst the retail sector is still feeling the impact of the recession. We will work with DEFRA to make this as light touch as possible and will keep members updated on any further developments.”

Contacts:

Shane Brennan Public Affairs Director
01252 515001/ 07921 372 978

Nina Collins Communications Coordinator
01252 515001

Michael Saxton/ Grappa PR
Julie Kirby 020 7602 9222

Notes to Editors:

1. ACS (Association of Convenience Stores) is the voice of local shops, representing over 33,000 convenience stores. ACS helps local shops thrive through lobbying, support and networking opportunities.

2. Download the ACS battery submissions here. www.acs.org.uk/en/lobbying/issues/environment/