Work is underway at Aldi’s Cowes store to install new recycling facilities that will allow Isle of Wight shoppers to claim back 20p every time they return an eligible empty drink bottle or can, as part of a major UK-wide recycling scheme launching in October 2027.
The supermarket is preparing for the introduction of the Deposit Return Scheme (DRS), which will see a refundable 20p deposit added to the price of eligible drinks sold in single-use plastic bottles and metal cans.
Customers will be able to reclaim the money by returning their empty containers to designated collection points, including recycling machines being introduced at supermarkets.
Aldi has confirmed to Island Echo that preparations are already underway at its Cowes store, although the machines will not be ready for use until the nationwide scheme launches in October 2027.
An Aldi spokesperson has said:
“The Deposit Return Scheme is aimed at improving recycling in the UK and we’re focused on making sure our stores are ready ahead of its launch in October 2027.”
Under the new arrangements, drinks containers made wholly or mainly from PET plastic, aluminium or steel, with capacities between 150ml and 3 litres, will be included in the scheme. This means shoppers purchasing eligible drinks will pay an additional 20p at the checkout, which can then be recovered when the empty bottle or can is returned for recycling.
For example, a customer buying a drink priced at £1 will pay £1.20, but will be able to reclaim the additional 20p by returning the empty container.
The scheme is being delivered by Exchange for Change, a not-for-profit organisation responsible for administering the new system across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
It aims to significantly increase the number of drinks containers collected for recycling, while reducing the amount of litter discarded on streets, beaches, in waterways and across the natural environment.
By encouraging consumers to return their empty containers rather than throwing them away, organisers hope more high-quality plastic and metal can be recovered and fed back into the recycling process.
Further information about the Deposit Return Scheme can be found at www.exchangeforchange.co.uk.
