Waste management is crucial to achieving global sustainability goals, with the Deposit Refund System (DRS) emerging under the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) framework to enhance recycling rates by incentivising consumers to return beverage containers through refundable deposits. In Hungary, large retailers are required to participate in DRS, while small retailers may join voluntarily. This research aims to identify key factors influencing the voluntary participation of small Asian retail stores, focusing on economic, operational, regulatory, and social aspects. Using semi-structured interviews with ten stores in Budapest and Győr, a thematic analysis identified both motivators and barriers to participation. Findings indicate environmental awareness among participants, but low operational capacity, with space constraints, labour demands, and unclear regulations limiting engagement. Financial concerns, particularly equipment and handling costs, were major deterrents, while the potential for increased customer traffic was seen as a benefit. The study highlights the need for targeted financial incentives, infrastructure support, and clear policy communication to increase the inclusion of small retailers in DRS frameworks.