The Welsh government has appointed Exchange for Change to run Wales' deposit return scheme (DRS) after months of delay caused by disagreements over how glass should be handled. The operator, which already runs equivalent recycling schemes for the rest of the UK, will launch the Welsh scheme in October 2027, and its appointment removes a key uncertainty that drinks industry lobbyists had warned could push back the launch date.

Wales is the only UK nation planning to include glass alongside plastic and metal in its DRS, a decision that has drawn criticism from drinks producers over potential cost rises and reduced consumer choice. A major sticking point was the number of reverse vending machines for glass at launch, with the Welsh government reportedly seeking 3,500 against an initial proposal of just 100; sustainability minister Llŷr Gruffydd would not confirm final figures but said return points would increase over time. Glass containers will be included from day one but face a four-year transition period with no deposit and no labelling requirement, while the government has said it will consider exemptions for smaller producers and retailers. Industry figures, including the British Soft Drinks Association's Andy Bagnall, welcomed the appointment as a crucial milestone but warned there can be no further delays before the 2027 launch.