Tuesday 6 October 2026
10:00 AM to 11:00 AM
Virtual
About the webinar
With just 12 months until Deposit Return Schemes (DRS) are introduced across the UK, now is the time for drinks manufacturers, brand owners, retailers and supply chain partners to prepare.
DRS will have significant implications for product data, labelling, packaging, supply chain processes and retailer requirements. Organisations need to understand what changes are required and the actions they should be taking now to ensure a smooth transition.
Join GS1 UK and industry experts for a practical readiness update, including a refresher on DRS labelling requirements and the latest Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) guidance developed through collaboration between major retailers, industry stakeholders and GS1 UK.
We'll explore what the new guidance means in practice, how the industry can work towards a consistent approach to implementation, and the critical steps businesses should take over the next year to support compliance and operational readiness.
You'll hear from Donald McCalman, CEO of DRS International and founder of Circularity Scotland, who brings first-hand experience of delivering DRS programmes across the UK, Ireland and international markets. You'll also hear from Howard Stone, brewing and pub supply chain specialist and former director at Circularity Scotland, who will share practical insights gained from more than 40 years working across the drinks industry.
Whether you're responsible for product data, packaging, supply chain operations, retail readiness or regulatory compliance, this webinar will help you understand what lies ahead and how to prepare with confidence.
What you'll learn
- DRS labelling requirements: Understand the key labelling considerations and what businesses need to have in place ahead of implementation.
- The latest EDI guidance: Discover the recommendations developed by retailers, industry stakeholders and GS1 UK to support a more consistent approach across the sector.
- Supply chain and data readiness: Learn about the operational, data and systems challenges organisations may face and how to address them.
- Preparing for the transition: Take away practical actions and next steps to help your business get ready for DRS launch.