Hawkers worried about teething issues when beverage container return scheme kicks in

Hawkers in Singapore are worried about customers refusing to pay an extra 10 cents for canned and bottled drinks under the new beverage container return scheme from April. Some are looking to ramp up manpower to explain the scheme to patrons, especially seniors. Some restaurants are also considering stopping the sale of these drinks for now to avoid teething issues. The Restaurant Association of Singapore said it is encouraged by the transition support available, including government grants for smaller operators and free collection services for high-volume locations. Rachel Teng reports.