Exchange For Change, the industry-led organisation delivering the Deposit Return Scheme (DRS), has published the first list of certified Reverse Vending Machines (RVMs), supporting retailers as they prepare for the scheme's launch on 1 October 2027.
Certification confirms that a machine is compatible with the RVM specification required to operate within the scheme, having undergone rigorous testing and assessment to reach the certification standard. Retailers considering purchasing or leasing an RVM are advised to check the approved list before selecting a model. The list will be updated on an ongoing basis as new RVMs are certified.
Certification process and requirements
Certification of the RVMs has been undertaken by a specialist assessment provider tasked with independently conducting the full certification process, which will remain ongoing to allow for new RVM suppliers to submit their machines for assessment.
Certification assesses a range of technical and operational requirements to ensure machines can operate effectively within the DRS, including the identification and acceptance of eligible containers, fraud prevention, connectivity with scheme systems, accessibility requirements and the secure handling of transaction data.
Artwork guidance and retailer support
Alongside the publication of the first certified machines, Exchange For Change has also published new RVM Artwork Guidance to support a consistent and recognisable approach across RVMs.
Russell Davies, Exchange For Change chief executive, said: “Publishing the first list of certified RVMs is an important step in helping retailers prepare for the launch of the Deposit Return Scheme in October 2027.
“Certification provides confidence that approved machines have met the requirements needed to operate within the scheme and gives retailers greater certainty as they consider their options.
“Retailers considering an RVM can now review the approved list and discuss the options available with suppliers. The list is designed to help retailers of all sizes make informed decisions ahead of the scheme launch, while the new Artwork Guidance provides retailers with approved branding that can be adopted alongside their own, helping to create a consistent and recognisable approach across the scheme.
“We will continue to provide guidance and support as preparations for scheme go-live progress, including through the grant scheme available to eligible small independent retailers to support the purchase of an RVM.”
Industry response
The Federation of Independent Retailers (The Fed) has welcomed the publication of the list and said it follows close engagement between the Fed and Exchange for Change, coming after calls from its national president Hemanshu Patel to share key information with independent retailers as swiftly as possible, so they can fully engage with the scheme.
Patel said: “This is another important milestone in the roll-out of DRS, and the Fed will be monitoring this list closely so members wishing to install an RVM will be able to do so once the scheme goes live in less than a year’s time.
“The specification will also be critical for some of our members who will qualify for a £6,000 grant, with the application process launching in January 2027.
“We will continue to work closely with Exchange for Change to ensure that information is shared with our members, who will be crucial for ensuring DRS successfully boosts recycling in the years ahead.”
