Emphasising impact

The UK’s Deposit Management Organisation has just announced Exchange for Change as its trading name, a couple of weeks after the appointment of its new CFO, Niamh Lawlor.

Most would certainly agree with the UK DMO that the name “reflects the [deposit return] scheme’s core purpose”: it conveys the right intention and ethos of the DRS in a simple yet impactful way, reminding the public that they will be playing an essential role in making more sustainable decisions for the planet. 

As part of this next phase of development, Exchange for Change has also unveiled a new brand icon that will appear on all in-scope cans, bottles and return points associated with the DRS, which launches in October 2027. The icon has been designed to become the “single, recognisable identifier of the scheme – making it easy for people to spot participating containers and return locations at a glance.” Metal packagers will be pleased to see a can centrally featured on the logo.

Exchange for Change has said it will work closely with drinks producers, retailers, wholesalers and hospitality to support the adoption of the scheme logo on labels and packaging. Formal issuance of the scheme logo and detailed guidance on how and when to apply it – including placement, sizing and approved formats – will reportedly be shared in the coming weeks, giving businesses time to prepare artwork updates ahead of the scheme’s introduction. Under the regulations, the logo will be a required part of container design for drinks products included in the scheme (packaged in aluminium, steel and PET plastic containers sized 150ml to 3L).

The addition of the scheme logo on the packaging itself as well as the visuals in deposit return locations is a strong reinforcement of the simple communication needed for the scheme to succeed. Encouraging steps forward indeed.

Alex Rivers (she/her), CanTech International editor
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