Important notice to all brand owners or first importers of beverage containers
New Deposit System : Important notice from the QRCBA
June 9, 2023
On May 19, the Quebec government announced its plan to implement the modernization of the deposit system in phases. As of November 1, 2023, the deposit will be extended to all ready-to-drink aluminum beverage containers ranging from 100 ml to 2L. The deposit will also be maintained on soft drink and beer containers that already require a deposit. Expansion to plastic, glass, and polycoat beverage containers will follow in 2025.
Effective November 1, 2023, the deposit amount for all the applicable containers will increase to 10¢, except for glass containers of 500ml or more, which will have a 25¢ deposit.
Certain refillable containers (CRM) of specific formats may have a different deposit value, subject to prior approval from the QBCRA.
Producers must include the new deposit amounts on all sales invoices issued from November 1, 2023.
During a transitional period in November, the duration of which is yet to be determined and may be regulated, beer containers over 450ml will continue to be refunded at 20¢, as many consumers would have purchased these containers with that deposit value before November 1st. After the transition period, the deposit will be refunded at 10¢, regardless of the deposit value printed on the container.
Starting November 1, it will no longer be necessary to indicate the words "Consignée Québec XX ¢ Refund" on returnable containers. However, this statement must be present on all returnable containers sold until October 31, 2023.
Inventories of containers, labels, and can lids bearing the Quebec deposit marking can be depleted after November 1st. However, producers are requested that no new orders for lids and labels bearing this mention be placed after this date.
The generic term "Recyclable" is tolerated but not recommended, as it may cause confusion among consumers.
The statement "Return for refund where applicable" is an accepted generic statement.
All consigned containers must display a visible and legible UPC code.
Refillable containers (CRM) that carry a different deposit, subject to prior approval from the QBCRA and in accordance with the rules set out in the regulation, must indicate the deposit value. The exact wording is not specified in the regulations, but the QBCRA suggests using "Dépot Québec XX ¢" or simply "Dépot XX ¢."
Similar to what is done in the current deposit system, the QBCRA advises against the use of plastic sleeves and labels on aluminum containers since their presence can prevent the recycling of the material under the best possible conditions. If producers choose to use this type of labeling and a devaluation of the material ensues, this devaluation could be re-invoiced to the producers concerned. It is recommended to opt for printing on cans or to affix a paper label.
We would like to remind all brand owners or first importers of beverage containers that it is mandatory to become a member of the QBCRA. To complete the membership process, please fill out this form.
Information
For any questions or comments, please write to us at membres@aqrcb.org