Key Points

• Exchange for Change (EFC) has shared its final decision on the transition to new barcodes.
• EFC share intial Producer Fee, alongside consultation. Final Producer Fee will be set in Q2 2027.
• Welsh Goverment state their intention to appoint a Deposit Management Organisation in Wales shortly.

Transition to new barcodes – Guidance – (page 7 for model)

EFC comments

• Under the current regulations, there is no formal transition period for the clearance of pre-DRS stock. Exchange for Change initiated this work because stakeholders consistently highlighted the risks that such an approach could create across the supply chain.
• There was broad alignment on the objectives of the transition, including minimising waste, maintaining availability, supporting consumers and ensuring a successful scheme launch, there remain differing views on how those objectives are best achieved.
• As the paper sets out, the recommendation should not be viewed as the end of the conversation. We recognise that there remain important areas requiring further consideration, including the management of residual stock, channel-specific operational challenges and the practical application of transition arrangements.
• While it has not been possible to fully align every viewpoint, we hope the attached submission demonstrates that all perspectives have been listened to, carefully considered and reflected where appropriate.
• The immediate next step is for Exchange for Change to engage with regulators and seek agreement to a transition arrangement.

Producer Fee consultation

EFC Prodcuer Fee Presentation Response template

• Please use your discretion, and treat as confidential, as figures included are commercially sensitive and should not be shared publicly.
• Please submit your completed written response by email to consultations@exchangeforchange.co.uk by end of day on 31st July 2026. Where possible, please provide evidence or examples to support your views, particularly where commenting on assumptions, methodologies or alternative approaches. All responses received during the consultation period will be considered by Exchange For Change before Producer Fees are determined and communicated on 28 August 2026. Responses will be treated in confidence. Please use the attached word document as the template for all responses.
• Please note this presentation which sets out the background to Producer Fees, the principles Exchange For Change has used to determine them, assumptions and data inputs used to inform these estimates, and some options on the Fees.
• The figures presented in this document are provided for the purposes of initial consultation and business planning. They are not confirmed Producer Fees and should not be treated as final fee levels. The figures are based on current assumptions, inputs and methodologies, all of which may change as a result of this consultation and further validation as real figures become available.
• A formal validation process is expected to take place in Q2 2027, after which fees for scheme launch can be confirmed. Final fees will also be subject to the required regulatory approval.
• Accordingly, all figures remain indicative and are subject to change.
• Plans and background Q&A from EFC.
• July update from EFC

Wales DRS appointment of a Deposit Management Organisation (DMO)

Welsh Cabinet Minister for Environment Llyr Gruffydd said “hopes to bring a positive conclusion to [the DMO appointment] in short order.” WSTA understand the Welsh Government are working on a formal process to appoint a DMO which will be concluded soon.

It has been reported Exchange for Change are thought to be the only bidder in the tender process. Note, Welsh Government expect to introduce a scheme which includes glass, despite clear interoperability issues. I will update you on the detail of the appointment as soon as I can.