Retail chiefs sceptical about levy plan as Scottish Government announces public consultation
CONVENIENCE chiefs say now is not the right time economically to introduce a 25p charge on all single-use drink cups.
They hit out after the Scottish Government announced it was opening a new public consultation on the proposal.
It would impact on the likes of self-serve coffee cups and slushie cups used in c-stores.
Pete Cheema, chief exec at the Scottish Grocers’ Federation, said: “The economic climate is already extremely challenging for many in the Scottish convenience store sector, as well as in the broader industry.
“It is well understood that regulation lands heaviest on small businesses and puts a strain on households’ budgets, adding to the cost-of-living crisis.”
He said the SGF was actively participating in the consultation and would continue to engage with the Government, retailers, and its producer members throughout this process.
The SGF is part of the Single-Use Cups advisory group and has distributed a survey to its members to gather their feedback on the proposals.
The Fed’s national president and Blantyre retailer, Mo Razzaq, said: “We are concerned that ministers are considering implementing the charge on all single-use disposable cups, regardless of the material used.
“The Government tries to justify this move as its first step towards reducing environmental harm caused by waste.
“With more sustainable cups, such as those made from biodegradable material or bio-based plastics included, there will be no incentive for retailers to buy and serve drinks in recycled materials.
“The Fed is calling for urgent talks between the Government and retail organisations.”
Ewan MacDonald-Russell, deputy head of the Scottish Retail Consortium (SRC), added: “When the economy is flatlining and high streets are struggling, we question whether this is the time to introduce a new cost to hard-pressed consumers.”
The SRC is also opposed to potential legislation to pledge the proceeds by law purely to environmental causes. It argues retailers are best placed to decide how the levy can help good causes in local communities.
However, Gillian Martin, acting Net Zero Secretary, said: “Many of these cups end up littering our roadsides, town centres, beaches and parks.
“Introducing a national charge could provide consistency for consumers, provide a level playing field for retailers and businesses, and help to drive forward sustainable behaviours.”
Martin said the charge would be implemented in a similar fashion to the 5p on single-use carrier bags, in a bid to ensure the legislation would be familiar to retailers and the public.
Those looking to make a response to the ongoing consultation can do so until 14 November, when it will close, via this link.
