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deposit information

Through our logistics network, Cave Direct returns eligible kegs and cases back to breweries to be cleaned, refilled and reused, meaning our lorries leave full of beer and return full of empties. It’s a process that helps keep products moving efficiently while reducing unnecessary waste across the supply chain. 

Many of the products supplied by Cave Direct are subject to a refundable deposit, and we ask all customers to return brewery-owned kegs, cases and bottles so they can re-enter the supply chain and be used again. This not only supports sustainability, but also helps us keep pricing as competitive as possible. 

Kegs

When ordering kegs, the product listing will clearly state: 

• Whether the keg is a KeyKeg (one-way) or Steel Keg (returnable) 
• Which keg connector is required 
• Whether a deposit applies 

We do not charge deposits on all returnable kegs, helping to keep costs lower for customers wherever possible. Where a deposit does apply, this will always be clearly shown on the product page and again at checkout before payment is made. 

All returnable kegs must be: 

• Returned to Cave Direct on your next delivery, or 
• Returned through an authorised third-party return scheme such as: 
  • Kegstar (for Kegstar kegs) 
  • eKeg (for eKeg products)  

cases

Deposits are charged on returnable plastic bottle cases at the following rates: 

• £4.00 per standard case  

• £8.44 per Delirium case  

Return Values 

• Empty cases can be returned for a £2.50 refund per case  

• Cases returned with a full set of matching bottles are eligible for a full deposit refund  

All products where a returnable deposit applies are clearly marked on the website and will also show on your invoice.

Crediting and Refunds

Deposit returns and credits are typically processed within 48 hours (2 working days) of empties being returned to the relevant Cave Direct branch. 

How refunds or credits are applied will depend on your account payment terms and ordering setup. Your Account Manager will explain the process during setup and will always be happy to help with any questions regarding returns or deposit balances.