Appointment marks another milestone in the DMO’s work to establish the scheme, which will go live from October 2027 in England, Scotland and Northern Ireland.
- John brings a wealth of experience from across the food, drink and retail supply chains following Board roles at FareShare, ABF and Compass Group among others.
The UK Deposit Management Organisation (UK DMO), the business-led, not-for-profit organisation tasked with designing, delivering and operating the new Deposit Return Scheme for single use plastic and metal drinks containers in Northern Ireland, Scotland and England, has appointed John Bason as Chair.
John brings a wealth of experience working with stakeholders across food and drink and retail supply chains. As Chair of FareShare, he oversaw its expansion into the UK’s leading charity tackling food waste by redirecting surplus food from retailers and producers to frontline charities.
John was Finance Director of Associated British Foods for more than 20 years and has held senior roles at United Biscuits, the global distribution company Bunzl, as well as being Senior Independent Director for the global food service business Compass Group.
Speaking on his appointment John said: “The Deposit Return Scheme is an opportunity to deliver a transformational change in the UK’s circular economy for these drinks containers. Having worked in markets across the world, I’ve seen firsthand the positive impact that such schemes can have. However, it is also a complex and challenging undertaking that will only be effective if it is easy for consumers to use, fair for retailers and producers of every size, and trusted by the public. That’s why I will be focused on ensuring that the views and insights of as many people as possible inform how we build the scheme.
“I’ve been impressed by the commitment and deep experience of my colleagues who have already been appointed at UK DMO, and I share their determination to build a scheme that works for everyone. Our goal is clear: bring business and consumers together to prevent billions of bottles and cans from littering our streets, seas and countryside, whilst cutting carbon emissions in the process.”
John’s appointment marks another milestone in the establishment of the DMO and in its progresses towards the scheme going live in October 2027. Since being appointed by the governments of England, Northern Ireland and Scotland[1] just over three months ago, the DMO has been engaging closely with businesses of all sizes, trade associations, consumer groups, environmental groups and a diverse array of other stakeholders as it develops the operational blueprint for the scheme.
The DMO has appointed a number of interim leaders with relevant experience to guide the organisation's setup, operations, and engagement planning. Recruitment for the other Board and Senior levels positions is well advanced.
Northern Ireland Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs Minister, Andrew Muir said: “I am pleased to welcome the appointment of John Bason as the Chair of UKDMO, a pivotal step in delivering the Deposit Return Scheme and an important milestone in our collective efforts to increase recycling rates, tackle litter and reduce our carbon emissions.”
Circular Economy Minister Mary Creagh said: “I welcome the progress the UK DMO is making and their close collaboration with retailers, consumer groups and drinks producers. The appointment of John Bason as Chair is a key milestone. I look forward to working closely with John and the team to deliver the deposit return scheme, which will stop the avalanche of rubbish that is filling up our streets and rivers, while kickstarting economic growth and creating new green jobs.”
Scottish Government Climate Action Secretary Gillian Martin said: “Establishing a deposit return scheme has been a long-running and consistent commitment of the Scottish Government. It will reduce the litter on our streets, increase recycling of our resources, and support our net zero ambitions. This appointment marks an important milestone as industry progresses towards scheme launch in October 2027, and we will continue to engage with UK DMO Ltd to support their delivery of a successful scheme in Scotland.”
Gavin Partington, Director General of the British Soft Drinks Association said: “We warmly welcome this appointment and look forward to working with John and his team and playing our part in ensuring successful delivery of a DRS by October 2027.”
Naomi Brandon-Bravo, Sustainability Policy Adviser at the BRC, said: “We welcome John Bason to his new role as Chair of the Deposit Management Organisation. His experience in retail will be invaluable as we work together to ensure the Deposit Return Scheme delivers real environmental benefits for consumers. There is significant work to be done, and we look forward to continuing to engage constructively and at pace with the DMO to help make DRS a success.”
Emma McClarkin, CEO of the British Beer and Pub Association, said: “This appointment is an important milestone and John Bason as Chair will bring a wealth of industry experience. Our sector is committed to sustainable packaging and a more circular economy, and it is vital the DRS scheme, which requires significant investment in challenging times, is delivered in a way as cost-effective a way as possible, while furthering environmental goals.”
Kinvara Carey, General Manager of the Natural Source Waters Association said: “We are delighted that John Bason has been appointed as Chair of UK DMO Ltd, bringing with him a wealth of experience. His appointment marks an important step on our way to delivering a world class DRS for England, Scotland and Northern Ireland.”
[1] UK DMO Ltd was confirmed as the Deposit Management Organisation by the governments of England and Northen Ireland on 6th May 2026. The Scottish Government designated UK DMO Ltd as the DMO for Scotland on the same date and this has subsequently approved by the Scottish Parliament.
