Exchange for Change approves range of RVM options
EXCHANGE for Change, the firm behind delivering DRS across the UK, has published its first list of certified Reverse Vending Machines (RVMs) to support retailers in making the right choice for DRS.
Certification of the machine confirms that the RVM is fully compatible with the RVM specification required to operate within the scheme, says Exchange for Change, with each approved machine having undergone rigorous testing and assessment to reach the standard.
With this in mind, those retailers who are still considering which machine to purchase ahead of the go-live date in October 2027 have been advised to study the pre-approved list before selecting a model. Additionally, the list will be updated on an ongoing basis as new RVMs are certified.
The certification process has seen Exchange for Change assess a range of 77 technical and operational requirements to ensure the machines can operate effectively within DRS. This includes the identification and acceptance of eligible containers, fraud prevention, connectivity with scheme systems, accessibility requirements and the secure handling of transaction data.
Included in the list of approved RVMs as of 29 October 2026 include:
TOMRA – Essential, Flow Standalone, Flow Flexible and Flow Multifeed.
RVM Systems – X2, Mega(Bulk) and Proline.
EcoVend – Eco Series and X Series.
Recycler – RVM 5.
Envipco – Compact, Flex and Optima.
Sielaff – SiCompact and SiVario.
Ropet – Plast-C and R80.
Russell Davies, chief executive officer at Exchange for Change, said: “Publishing the first list of certified RVMs is an important step in helping retailers prepare for the launch of the Deposit Return Scheme in October 2027.
“Certification provides confidence that approved machines have met the requirements needed to operate within the scheme and gives retailers greater certainty as they consider their options.
“Retailers considering an RVM can now review the approved list and discuss the options available with suppliers. The list is designed to help retailers of all sizes make informed decisions ahead of the scheme launch, while the new Artwork Guidance provides retailers with approved branding that can be adopted alongside their own, helping to create a consistent and recognisable approach across the scheme.”
For further information on the approved list from Exchange for Change, retailers can click the following link.
This new move from the organiser behind DRS has been welcomed from the industry, with the Federation of Independent Retailers (the Fed) stating that this clarification will allow retailers to act as “swiftly as possible” so they can engage with the scheme.
Hemanshu Patel, national president at the Fed, said: “This is another important milestone in the roll-out of DRS, and the Fed will be monitoring this list closely so members wishing to install an RVM will be able to do so once the scheme goes live in less than a year’s time.
“The specification will also be critical for some of our members who will qualify for a £6,000 grant, with the application process launching in January 2027.
“We will continue to work closely with Exchange for Change to ensure that information is shared with our members, who will be crucial for ensuring DRS successfully boosts recycling in the years ahead.”
