Wales Adds Glass Bottles to Deposit Return Scheme, Diverging From Rest of UK

The Welsh government has confirmed that glass bottles will be included in its upcoming deposit return scheme, setting it apart from similar systems planned in other parts of the United Kingdom. While England, Scotland, and Northern Ireland have chosen to limit their deposit schemes to PET plastic bottles and aluminum or steel cans, Wales will require deposits on glass containers as well. The new system is scheduled to take effect on October 1, 2027, with businesses expected to register by the end of this year.

This decision has sparked concern among industry groups, who argue that including glass will create logistical challenges and increase costs for producers and retailers. The Wine and Spirit Trade Association (WSTA) has warned that the need to manage separate stock for Wales could lead to significant reductions in product availability. According to a survey conducted by the WSTA, up to 97% of products could be withdrawn from Welsh shelves because the cost of compliance would make them unprofitable in the Welsh market.

To address concerns about trade barriers within the UK, the Welsh government has announced a four-year transition period before specific labeling requirements are enforced. During this time, products destined for Wales would need to be clearly marked as either “Not for sale in Wales” or “For sale only in Wales” to avoid environmental charges applicable elsewhere in the UK. Despite this concession, industry representatives maintain that managing separate inventories will be costly and complex.

The WSTA also questions the environmental rationale behind including glass in the scheme. Wales already boasts one of the highest glass recycling rates in the world, with more than 90% of glass collected for recycling. Industry leaders argue that adding glass to the deposit system may not yield significant environmental benefits but will impose additional burdens on businesses.

In addition to changes in recycling policy, Wales is tightening regulations on alcohol pricing. On February 3, the Welsh parliament approved an increase in the minimum unit price for alcohol from 50 pence to 65 pence per unit, effective from October. This change will raise the minimum price of a standard bottle of wine (12.5% alcohol) to over £6, an increase of £1.41 per 75cl bottle. For spirits, the minimum price will rise from £14 to £18.20 per bottle.

The minimum unit pricing policy was first introduced in Wales in 2020 with a sunset clause that would have ended it on March 1, 2026 if not renewed by parliament. The recent vote ensures that both the policy and its higher rate will remain in place from October onward. The new rate brings Wales into alignment with Scotland, which already enforces a similar minimum price.

These regulatory changes reflect a broader effort by Welsh authorities to address public health and environmental concerns through stricter controls on packaging waste and alcohol sales. However, industry groups continue to express reservations about the potential impact on product availability and business costs within Wales compared to other parts of the UK.