The UK Deposit Management Organisation (UK DMO) has confirmed John Bason as its new Chair.
The organisation, officially appointed on 6 May 2025 to run the UK’s upcoming deposit return scheme (DRS), will oversee the system’s launch in October 2027.
The scheme will apply to single-use plastic and metal drinks containers ranging from 150ml up to 3L across England, Scotland and Northern Ireland. For more information on the Welsh DRS scheme, you can view our previous article here.
Leadership Appointment
Bason brings a wealth of experience from across the food, retail and manufacturing sectors.
He has chaired the food redistribution charity FairShare, spent over two decades as Finance Director at Associated British Foods and held senior roles with United Biscuits, Bunzl and Compass Group.
On his new role, Bason said: “The Deposit Return Scheme is an opportunity to deliver a transformational change in the UK’s circular economy for these drinks containers.
“However, it is also a complex and challenging undertaking that will only be effective if it is easy for consumers to use, fair for retailers and producers of every size, and trusted by the public.
“That’s why I will be focused on ensuring that the views and insights of as many people as possible inform how we build the scheme."
Circular Economy Minister Mary Creagh welcomed the appointment, saying: “I look forward to working closely with John and the team to deliver the deposit return scheme, which will stop the avalanche of rubbish that is filling up our streets and rivers, while kickstarting economic growth and creating new green jobs.”
Wider Organisational Progress
Alongside Bason’s appointment, UK DMO has named several interim leaders to support the organisation’s setup and engagement work, with further board and executive recruitment still underway.
The body has been consulting with businesses, retailers, trade groups, consumer organisations and environmental campaigners to design the scheme.
The board itself includes representatives from a cross-section of industry - ranging from large producers and supermarkets to small retailers and wholesalers - nominated through trade associations.
Reflecting on the team’s progress, Bason commented: “I’ve been impressed by the commitment and deep experience of my colleagues who have already been appointed at UK DMO, and I share their determination to build a scheme that works for everyone.
“Our goal is clear: bring business and consumers together to prevent billions of bottles and cans from littering our streets, seas and countryside, whilst cutting carbon emissions in the process.”
Andrew Muir, Northern Ireland’s Minister for Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, added: “I am pleased to welcome the appointment of John Bason as the Chair of UK DMO, a pivotal step in delivering the Deposit Return Scheme and an important milestone in our collective efforts to increase recycling rates, tackle litter and reduce our carbon emissions.”
