Aldi has begun trialling a deposit return scheme (DRS) at its Bathgate store in West Lothian ahead of the expected introduction of a system for the whole of Scotland.
Customers are being encouraged to return single-use PET plastic or glass bottles from 50ml up to three litres, and aluminium drinks cans, to the reverse vending machine located in the store’s car park. For each item deposited, they will receive 10p in the form of a voucher, up to a maximum of £5, to be redeemed against their shopping in Aldi.
Scotland’s deposit return scheme was due to launch in July 2022. However, recent reports have suggested that its introduction may be delayed until the year after due to the disruption in the retail sector caused by Covid and Brexit.
Richard Holloway, Regional Managing Director for Aldi Scotland, commented: “We’re always looking for new ways to look after our environment and promote recycling whenever possible.
“We hope local customers in Bathgate will embrace this trial and we will use their feedback to inform our plans as we prepare for the deposit return scheme roll out in Scotland.”
