The SGF is understood to be seeking a judicial review into the way the Scottish government has embarked on implementing a Deposit Return Scheme, it is being widely reported this morning.
A legal challenge would threaten to further delay the DRS rollout, which has already been delayed from July this year until August 2023, the reports suggest.
The NFRN said it was “shocked” at the SGF’s decision. The trade association’s Scottish President, Ferhan Ashiq, said: “The last thing that everyone involved in this initiative needs right now is yet more uncertainty. We need certainty, we have a launch date, and we must continue to work together on delivering a scheme that works for all retailers – large and small – as well as achieving its aim of increasing the availability of high-quality recycled plastic, metal and glass and decreasing the number of these items being discarded as litter.”
Scottish retailer Shahid Razzaq, who is a member of the NFRN’s national executive committee, added: “From day one, we have supported the Scottish government’s aim to increase its recycling rates, but have been mindful to ensure that any scheme that is introduced works in the best interests of independent retailers.
“Our members are responsible retailers who want to play a role in protecting the environment, and that’s why we have always been vocal about getting DRS introduced in Scotland and why we have engaged proactively with like-minded stakeholders.”
The SGF has denied the reports. It response can be seen here.
