Exchange for Change has released the finalised branding rules for the UK’s upcoming Deposit Return Scheme (DRS), giving drinks manufacturers detailed instructions on how the official logo must appear on eligible containers.
You can view the finalised branding rules via the Exchange for Change website here.
The organisation – formally appointed as the UK Deposit Management Organisation (DMO) – will oversee delivery of the scheme when it begins operating across England, Scotland and Northern Ireland on 1 October 2027.
The newly issued Regulatory Requirements are designed to help producers prepare packaging updates well ahead of that date.
Russell Davies, Chief Executive of Exchange for Change, said: “From October next year, people will see this icon on every in-scope bottle and can across England, Scotland and Northern Ireland.
“The consistency of the DRS logo matters, as it will build recognition and help to drive behaviour change in recycling.”
Clear and Recognisable Branding
Exchange for Change describes the mark as a straightforward, eye-catching emblem created to make in-scope drinks containers immediately identifiable.
The intention is for the logo to appear consistently not only on packaging, but also at return points and within wider scheme communications.
By standardising the look and feel, the DMO aims to ensure consumers can quickly recognise which containers carry a refundable deposit and understand that they can be returned for repayment.
The logo is intended to act as a quick visual cue that a deposit applies and that the container can be brought back through the scheme.
Davies: “Publishing the approved Regulatory Requirements gives drinks producers the clarity they need to plan artwork cycles and packaging updates with confidence.
“We’re focused on giving industry time, certainty and support as we move towards launch.”
Technical Standards and Layout Rules
The Regulatory Requirements sets out detailed production criteria governing how the logo must be displayed.
All in-scope containers will be required to carry the DRS mark prominently. The guidance covers both portrait and landscape versions to suit different packaging shapes and sizes.
Specific minimum and maximum dimensions are defined, together with mandatory clear-space rules to preserve visibility and readability.
The document also confirms approved colour treatments and offers technical advice to ensure the branding remains consistent across a range of printing methods and materials.
In addition, the framework explains the formal procedure that would apply should the logo ever need to be amended, withdrawn or replaced in the future.
Producers will still have flexibility in how the DRS logo interacts with existing recycling information on pack. The symbol may sit alongside current recycling labels or, if companies prefer, replace certain elements — provided all regulatory conditions are satisfied.
View our previous DRS articles below:
