DMO publishes Reverse Vending Machine (RVM) Specification – a key milestone for the Deposit Return Scheme

 

UK Deposit Management Organisation (DMO) has today published the official Reverse Vending Machine (RVM) Specification, setting out the standards and performance requirements for the automated machines that will collect beverage containers under the UK’s Deposit Return Scheme (DRS).

The specification sets out how RVMs will work in the scheme and what is required of those supplying or operating them. It marks an important milestone that gives industry the certainty to move forward with planning.

Turning policy into infrastructure

Reverse Vending Machines will play a central role in the Deposit Return Schemes being introduced across England, Scotland and Northern Ireland. They will allow consumers to return empty drinks containers, such as plastic bottles and cans, and redeem their deposit.

The new specification ensures all machines meet consistent standards for reliability, accessibility and performance across all three nations, while allowing for future innovation and technological improvement that can enhance user experience, efficiency or environmental performance over time.

Supporting industry readiness

The DMO has worked closely with RVM suppliers, regulators across England, Scotland and Northern Ireland, and members of its Industry Advisory Group to prepare and finalise the specifications. This collaboration has helped ensure the standards are practical for suppliers to deliver and meet the needs of producers and retailers.

What the specification covers

The document outlines the minimum criteria RVMs must meet, including container recognition accuracy, data management and connectivity. It also sets out expectations for machine certification, integration with the DMO’s systems, and use of approved branding and consumer messaging.

The specification has been designed with consumers in mind, ensuring machines are reliable, accessible and simple to use. It sets clear expectations for features such as screen messaging, accessibility options and refund processes, helping to make returning containers quick and straightforward wherever people live.

Future details coming

The specifications published today cover the hardware requirements for RVMs. This gives suppliers, retailers and return point operators the confidence to plan and place orders knowing that their machines will meet the standards required for the scheme.

The software and programming requirements for RVMs are still in development and will be published in line with the wider DMO IT systems next year, with release planned for summer 2026.

The DMO will also publish further details in 2026 on the compensation available to return point operators for purchasing or leasing RVMs, as part of the Retail Handling Fee (RHF). An extensive consultation on the RHF will take place through the Industry Advisory Group beginning this autumn, with more detail on fee structures expected in the second half of next year.

The full RVM specification is available to download here: UK DMO RVM Specification