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UKHospitality Scotland is calling for the immediate pause and review of the deposit return scheme, citing that it is “marred” by insufficient preparation.
The news comes as Scotland is now in the middle of a leadership contest to find a replacement for Nicola Sturgeon, as UKH urges all candidates to commit to an immediate halt and review of the scheme.
According to the organisation, the hospitality sector has been warning for years that the scheme is not fit-for-purpose and would place enormous costs on businesses.
This comes at a time of already mounting inflationary pressure.
Leon Thompson, executive director of UKH Scotland, said: “Finally, common sense is prevailing in Holyrood as the complexity and devastating impact of the Deposit Return Scheme becomes glaringly evident. The flawed model, complexity and burdens of the scheme will put unnecessary pressure on both businesses and consumers, who are all struggling with the cost-of-living crisis.
“With all nations in the UK planning to introduce a Deposit Return Scheme, we need to see a UK-wide scheme that works for businesses and consumers, as well as all our sustainability and net zero goals.”
He added: “Hospitality businesses are not against a scheme, but they want one that takes account of the excellent rates of recycling across our sector and targets resources where DRS can make a difference to littering and sustainability targets. The current iteration does none of that which is why a full review is now essential.”
