We know we can call on them at any time and they now have such an in-depth knowledge of our scheme that they will always hit the ground running.
DRS International recently caught up with Ciaran Foley, CEO at Re-turn to learn more on his experiences of working with DRS International during the launch and development of the highly successful Irish deposit return scheme.
“What were the key challenges Re-turn faced at the outset of implementing Ireland’s Deposit Return Scheme, and how did DRS International help you overcome them?”
Initially everything had to be done at pace, with a very small inexperienced team, with everything being viewed through a very public lens. At this point DRSI was invaluable to Re-turn, providing guidance, advice, know-how and qualified resource. The breadth of the challenges experienced were immense and we were very grateful to have the experience of DRS International to support us.
“Can you describe the impact DRS International has had on the successful launch and ongoing operation of Ireland’s DRS?”
In order to positively influence the behaviour of a nation you need to be constantly improving the convenience of the system, constantly utilising innovation to find new ways of increasing redemption and watching out for areas that could negatively impact customer perception. This means that at rollout stage of a deposit return system you need to be at your best in many different areas and constantly evolving at pace. As ideas were harvested, we needed resources to refine and deliver them. Having the guys from DRS International around who not only were nimble, agile, and industrious but also had extensive knowledge of DRS systems from around the world was absolutely invaluable to Re-turn.
“What stands out about DRS International’s approach compared to other partners or providers you’ve worked with?”
The DRS International guys very much became part of the team. We genuinely felt they were as vested and as passionate as our own team. No problem was too big, and they always show a solution oriented approach. The strategic thinking of the senior members of the team was also a huge plus.
“How has the relationship with DRS International evolved over the last 18 months, and what does that say about their long-term value?”
As stated previously, the DRSI guys feel like part of the team.
“Would you recommend DRS International to other countries or organisations looking to implement a Deposit Return Scheme? If so, why?”
Absolutely. Even though many countries in Europe and beyond now operate Deposit Return Schemes, they all have their differences, and each country will have its own challenges. It is a complex world, dealing with multiple stakeholders, be that in industry, government, media or consumers and to have a team of people who have been through the challenges many times can be the difference between success and failure.