Starbucks Will Let Customers Use Reusable Cups

Starbucks will now let customers use reusable cups at all of their locations. This is a first for the coffee giant in its efforts to reduce its waste output, which is primarily driven by its iconic disposable coffee cups.

“Starting January 3, 2024, customers will be able to use their own clean, personal cup for every visit at all company-operated stores and participating licensed stores in the U.S. and Canada — including drive-thru, the Starbucks app, and in café,” the company said in a statement.

The site says that as the majority of Starbucks drinks are enjoyed on the go, this decision regarding reusable cups provides customers with choices in how they want their beverages served. Starbucks is committing to reduce waste by 50% by the year 2030, as reported by Forbes.

Michael Kobori, Starbucks chief sustainability officer, said in the statement that the coffee giant’s future goal is to have every beverage served in a reusable cup. Kobori says he understands that many Starbucks customers care for the planet, and now they can join them in their sustainability efforts.

Starting today, Starbucks will expand its reusable cup program to allow customers to use their own personal, reusable cups in drive-thru and mobile orders in all participating licensed stores in the U.S. and Canada. https://t.co/wntKnD13S0 pic.twitter.com/ojqSbwv4OS

— Forbes (@Forbes) January 3, 2024

Other incentives for using reusable cups include a discount of 10 cents off a drink. Members of its loyalty program also earn 25 bonus stars. Customers can earn 25 stars up to three times daily for using the cups at participating locations.

In the café, customers should tell the barista they brought their own personal cup when they order. At most stores, customers who sit and stay in the café can also request a reusable ceramic or glass cup.

For the drive-thru, while ordering, customers should let the barista know they brought their cups. At the pickup window, baristas collect customers’ cups without the lid using a contactless vessel to ensure hygiene and safety. The beverage will be returned the same way.

When customers order via the Starbucks app, first they will hit the “Customization” button and then select “Personal Cup” in the customization menu and continue ordering as usual. When entering the store to pick up their order, they give their cup to the barista for their beverage.

This is part of a more significant cultural movement. The company is leading a shift toward reusables and away from single-use plastics, making it convenient for customers to use their cups for every visit.