How does the Minister plan to support small Welsh brewers in adapting to the operational and financial requirements associated with the implementation of the Deposit Return Scheme?
An economic impact assessment was published alongside our joint consultation on the proposed Deposit Return Scheme in March 2021, this included a specific section on potential impacts on small and micro sized businesses. The assessment demonstrated a net positive impact for the scheme.
Further impact assessment is being undertaken and will be published alongside the Deposit Return Scheme Regulations when they are introduced to the Senedd.
We recognise smaller producers may face challenges in adapting to the obligations of a DRS and are looking at exclusions for producers of low volume or limited item product lines and for drinks producers who use refill as well as reduced fees for smaller businesses.