Danone has called for closer cooperation between drinks producers and retailers ahead of the UK’s planned deposit return scheme, due to start in October 2027. In a company update dated 22 October 2026, the business said practical store preparation is now essential.

The scheme will add a refundable deposit to eligible drinks containers, which customers can reclaim when returning empty packs. For supermarkets, delivery involves more than installing reverse vending machines: return locations, customer instructions, staff training and flows of used containers will all have to work together.

Danone said it has welcomed around 100 retail contacts to demonstrations and practical support sessions. It also helped trial reverse vending technology during the Wimbledon Championships qualifying competition, giving organisers an opportunity to observe how consumers use the system.

According to Danone, a survey of 2,000 UK consumers found that almost two-thirds do not always recycle bottles and cans when away from home. The company cited insufficient access to bins and unclear labelling among the obstacles identified.

Danone also highlighted Ireland as a market where collection rates for plastic bottles and drinks cans rose substantially following the introduction of deposit returns. Such comparisons illustrate potential benefits but do not guarantee equivalent results in UK shops.

For supermarket operators, the coming year is a window to examine store space, machine maintenance, shopper queues and responsibilities for collecting returned packaging. Equipment suppliers will also have to demonstrate reliable reporting and servicing.

GTN has previously reported on TOMRA’s plans for UK supermarket recycling machines, a related part of the retail infrastructure being developed.

Danone said its immediate focus is on working with the deposit management organisation, retailers and other partners to make the launch workable for customers from the outset.