Starbucks has launched a reusable cup test in 12 stores across California that offers the chance to claim rewards and prizes for participating customers.
From 14 August through 22 October, customers will have the choice of bringing their own personal cup, use a Borrow A Cup from the café, or choose For Here Where, a reusable ceramic or glass cup for those who opt to sit and stay at the location.
“Our latest round of reusables tests around the world contribute to our goal for all customer packaging to be reusable, recyclable, or compostable in the future,” says Starbucks Partner and Customer Solutions Business Strategy VP Amelia Landers. “We know our partners and customers care about the planet, and we’re proud to offer them ways to join us in in making sustainable choices in their everyday lives.”
For the test, Starbucks has teamed up with TURN Systems to better understand cup return behaviour.
“These types of tests are extremely important so that the company can understand all the different ways we can make an impact and move towards goals that we have set for the future,” says Starbucks District Manager Tonya Palacios, who leads the stores conducting the test. “I’m optimistic that we will execute the test at a high level and gather lots of feedback that will influence the next step in reusable cups and our sustainability goals.”
Customers who bring their own clean personal cup will receive the standard 10 cents off with an additional 25 bonus stars for Starbucks Rewards members. When customers return a borrowed cup, they will have the option to register online with TURN for a chance to win a prize.
Starbucks is committed to cutting their waste footprint in half by 2030, and has recently updated their target to include a commitment for all customer packaging to be reusable, recyclable, or compostable.
The company has conducted reusables tests in over 25 markets around the world with more planned in the coming months.
