The United Kingdom Deposit Management Organisation (UK DMO), the official scheme administrator for the Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) in England, Scotland, and Northern Ireland, has published its comprehensive minimum specifications for Reverse Vending Machines (RVMs). These standards are designed to ensure that every RVM deployed as a return point meets strict requirements for reliability, security, accessibility, and operational efficiency—laying the foundation for a successful, transparent, and future-proof DRS.

As the UK DMO makes clear, only RVMs that fully comply with these specifications will be approved for use within the scheme. At Recyclever, we are proud to confirm that our RVMs not only meet but exceed every aspect of these requirements, making us the ideal partner for retailers and scheme operators across the UK.

Article List and Container Management: Always Up-to-Date, Always Accurate

UK DMO Requirement:
RVMs must accurately identify all in-scope beverage containers using a centrally maintained Article List provided by the DMO, updated via API at least daily. Machines must store at least 100,000 container records locally and never accept non-scheme containers unless specifically authorised.

Recyclever Advantage:
Recyclever RVMs are fully integrated with the UK DMO’s API, ensuring daily synchronisation of the Article List and instant validation of every container. Our systems are engineered for high-capacity data storage and robust data integrity, guaranteeing that only eligible containers are accepted and processed.

Container Scope and Recognition: Precision Across All Materials and Formats

UK DMO Requirement:
Machines must accept PET, aluminium, and steel beverage containers between 150ml and 3 litres, within precise size tolerances. Recognition must combine barcode, shape, weight, and metal detection, with a combined accuracy of at least 95%. Silhouette shape recognition and logo recognition are also required (the latter within one year of go-live).

Recyclever Advantage:
Our RVMs are designed for maximum flexibility and precision. They handle the full range of in-scope containers, using advanced multi-sensor technology—360° barcode scanning, high-accuracy weight and metal detection, and proprietary silhouette recognition algorithms. Our software is built to incorporate computer vision for silhouette detection.

Anti-Fraud and Security: Unmatched Protection for the DRS

UK DMO Requirement:
RVMs must detect and prevent all forms of fraud, including stringing, container swaps, and attempts to return already-compacted items. Every fraud attempt must be recorded and reported.

Recyclever Advantage:
Recyclever leads the industry in anti-fraud innovation. Our machines use a layered approach—combining movement sensors, shape and weight validation, and advanced anti-tampering logic—to ensure that only legitimate returns are processed. Every suspicious event is logged and available for audit, protecting the integrity of the DRS and retailer operations.

Compaction and Container Processing: Efficient, Secure, and Compliant

UK DMO Requirement:
Compactors must reduce PET volume by at least 55% and aluminium/steel by 75%, ensuring barcodes are rendered inoperable and containers cannot be reused for further returns. All compacted containers must remain in one piece, with minimal co-mingling.

Recyclever Advantage:
Our patented dual-chamber compactor exceeds these requirements, delivering optimal compaction ratios for every material type. The design ensures containers are securely compacted, barcodes are destroyed, and all material remains easily sortable for downstream recycling. Our compactor is engineered for longevity, with removable blades for rapid, low-cost maintenance.

Connectivity, Data Management, and Uptime: Built for a Connected DRS

UK DMO Requirement:
RVMs must be online and connected to the UK DMO network at least 99.5% of the time, with robust data backup and recovery protocols. All transaction data must be encrypted, stored for at least four weeks, and synchronised with the DMO’s systems. Machines must support remote software and database updates.

Recyclever Advantage:
Recyclever’s RVMs are designed for maximum connectivity and resilience. Our systems support LAN, WiFi, and cellular connections, with automatic failover and local data queuing in case of outages. All data is securely encrypted in transit and at rest, and our cloud-based RecyHub portal gives retailers and operators real-time fleet visibility, remote updates, and instant access to all required reports.

Integration and Interoperability: Seamless with POS, Loyalty, and DMO APIs

UK DMO Requirement:
Machines must integrate with the UK DMO’s published APIs for transaction management, status, and configuration. They must also connect with retailer POS systems for voucher redemption and support future payment and donation options.

Recyclever Advantage:
Our RVMs offer full API integration with the UK DMO, retailer POS systems, and loyalty apps. Unique, single-use vouchers are generated instantly, and refunds can be credited directly to loyalty cards or apps via QR code scanning. We’re ready for digital payments and charitable donations as the scheme evolves.

Accessibility and User Experience: Designed for Everyone

UK DMO Requirement:
RVMs must be accessible and intuitive for all users, with high-contrast, standardised messaging, tactile support, and compliance with the Equality Act 2010. Machines must support “call for assistance” features and be installed in accessible locations.

Recyclever Advantage:
Accessibility is at the core of our design philosophy. Our touch screens offer multi-language support, high-contrast visuals, and intuitive navigation. Physical design ensures comfortable use for all, and our “call for assistance” feature is standard. We work closely with retailers to ensure every installation meets or exceeds legal and practical accessibility requirements.

Certification and Compliance: Ready for Approval

UK DMO Requirement:
RVM suppliers must provide full technical documentation and pass independent certification before being approved for use in the scheme.

Recyclever Advantage:
Recyclever is fully prepared for the UK DMO’s certification process. Our machines have been rigorously tested and documented to demonstrate compliance with every specification. We are committed to ongoing improvement and rapid adaptation to any future changes in requirements.

Recyclever—Your Trusted Partner for the UK DRS compliant Reverse Vending Machines

The UK DMO’s RVM specifications set a high bar for technology, security, and user experience. Recyclever not only meets every requirement but brings additional innovation, reliability, and support to ensure your DRS deployment is a success from day one. For retailers and scheme operators seeking a future-proof, fully compliant, and operationally efficient solution, Recyclever is the clear choice.

Ready to deploy the UK’s best-in-class RVMs? 

Contact Recyclever today to discuss your DRS needs and see our technology in action.