Supermarkets to pay people for returned bottles and cans - find out how

Supermarkets across the UK will pay you for bringing back empty bottles and cans as part of a new government recycling scheme. You won’t need a receipt, and you’ll get money back for every eligible container you return.

The Deposit Return Scheme starts in October 2027 and aims to cut down on rubbish in our parks, streets and beaches. Here’s what you need to know.

Where can I get paid to return my bottles and cans?

You’ll be able to return bottles and cans at:

• major supermarkets like Tesco, Asda, Morrisons and Sainsbury’s among others
• convenience stores
• newsagents
• any shop that sells single‑use drinks included in the scheme

These places must set up a return point unless they get an exemption. Some will use reverse vending machines (you pop the container in; it spits out money or a voucher). Others may do it manually at the counter.

When you return your empties, you’ll get your deposit back in cash, by card, or as a voucher depending on the shop.

How much will I get for returning my bottles and cans?

At the moment, the government hasn’t officially confirmed the exact deposit amount. But current industry guidance suggests you’ll get around 20p per bottle or can when the scheme goes live.

Which bottles and cans qualify for payment?

You’ll get a deposit back on drinks containers that are:

• aluminium or steel cans
• PET plastic bottles (the clear, fizzy‑drink‑style plastic)
• between 150ml and 3 litres
• single‑use

Bottles and cans in the scheme will be clearly labelled so you’ll know if they qualify.

When can I start returning my bottles and cans for money?

The scheme is set to launch in October 2027 across:

• England
• Scotland
• Northern Ireland

Can I return other people’s bottles and cans for money?

Yes, you can return other people’s bottles and cans for money as long as the containers qualify.

If it’s in the scheme and meets the rules, you can return it. Call it a public service with pocket money.

Do I have to return the bottles and cans to the shop where I bought them?

No, you don’t have to return your bottles and cans to the exact shop where you bought them from to get your deposit back. You can take them to any approved return point.

You don’t need a receipt, and you don’t need to remember where you bought the drink. Just bring the container back clean-ish and intact.

Why is this happening?

The aim is to cut waste, boost recycling, and stop bottles and cans clogging up our countryside and oceans. Defra says the scheme will help tackle the “avalanche of rubbish” we’re all sick of seeing.

Bottles and cans paid return scheme – key takeaways

• You’ll get money back for returning empty bottles and cans
• Applies to aluminium, steel and PET plastic
• Launching October 2027
• Return points in supermarkets, corner shops and newsagents
• No receipt needed
• No need to return to the exact shop where you bought the item from
• You can return anyone’s qualifying bottles and cans