ACS is working closely with Exchange for Change, the organisation responsible for designing and operating the Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) across England, Scotland and Northern Ireland, to ensure that the practical realities of running a convenience store are reflected as the scheme is developed.

To support retailers as they start to prepare, ACS hosted a webinar with Exchange for Change, aimed at introducing the scheme and what it will mean for day-today operations in convenience stores when the scheme goes live in October 2027. The webinar responded to the growing demand from retailers who want clear, practical information about what the scheme will mean for their businesses.

ACS members can access the summary of the session here.

Retailers looking for further guidance will have more chances to hear from ACS and Exchange for Change in the coming months. Further webinars, delivered by Exchange for Change will run on the following dates:

• 17 February, 10:30-11:45

• 19 February, 9:30-10:45

• 23 February, 12:30-1:45

• 25 February, 2:30-3:45

• 5 March, 10:30-11:45

• 9 March, 10:30-11:45

• 11 March, 9:30-10:45

• 17 March, 10:30-11:45

• 19 March, 1:30-2:35

We will be hosting a dedicated session on DRS at the Safe & Responsible Retailing Conference on 18th March, where speakers from Exchange for Change and other industry experts will share the latest updates and practical advice to help stores begin to prepare. Register for free to join us at the Safe & Responsible Retailing Conference here.