The Vending & Automated Retail Association (AVA) has welcomed the UK government’s announcement of the deposit return scheme’s official name, Exchange for Change, as consultation on the scheme continues.

The AVA said it has played a key role in the development of the scheme, working with the UK Deposit Management Organisation from the outset to ensure the needs of vending and automated retail operators are represented.

As a result, vending and unattended retail have been structured to remain exempt from the requirement to provide a return point, which the association described as a critical protection for the sector.

The AVA said it continues to push for practical implementation measures that reflect the operational realities of automated retail, including safeguards against additional fees and logistical challenges for operators.

Scott Sherlock, public affairs manager at the AVA, said it was essential that the scheme continues to recognise the sector’s unique operating model and that exemptions are maintained as implementation progresses.

AVA chief executive David Llewellyn said the launch of the scheme name marked progress but noted that a tight timetable remains ahead of the planned October 2027 launch. He added that the industry could benefit from a unified scheme operating consistently across the UK.

The AVA said it will continue working with government and industry stakeholders to support its members as the UK vending and automated retail sector adapts to environmental regulation linked to the rollout of Exchange for Change.