Starbucks amends mobile app to allow reusable cup orders in N America and encourage sustainability

Starbucks has amended its app to add a reusable coffee cup option for its in-app mobile orders in the US and Canada. The well-known chain has also altered its drive-through and in-store procedures to encourage reuse and sustainability among its large customer base.

With the majority of Starbucks beverages enjoyed on-the-go, the change away from single-use plastics unlocks a big opportunity for customers to choose reusables and it supports the coffee chain’s commitment to reduce waste by 50 percent by 2030.

Customers at participating stores who bring any clean, personal cup will receive a $0.10 discount on their beverage, and in the US Starbucks Rewards members will also receive 25 Bonus Stars.

 When customers order via the Starbucks app, they will need to hit the ‘Customisation’ button and then select ‘Personal Cup’ in the customisation menu and then continue ordering as normal.

 When they get to the store, users connect with their barista at the pickup area, and hand over their clean personal cup without the lid. The barista will hand the beverage back in a contactless vessel to ensure hygiene and safety. There is also the option to specify personal cup usage in the chain’s cafés or via its drive-thru outlets.  

Starbucks claims to be the first national coffee retailer in the US to accept reusable cups for its in-app mobile orders. Commenting on the new year green initiative, Michael Kobori, Starbucks chief sustainability officer, said: “We envision a future where every beverage can be served in a reusable cup. We know our customers are passionate about the planet, and now, they can join us in our efforts to give more than we take, no matter how they order.”

According to Kate Daly, Managing Director and Head of the Centre for the Circular Economy at the investment firm Closed Loop Partners, which specialises in supporting green initiatives and runs the NextGen Consortium that aims to address single-use foodservice packaging waste by sharing good design and procedures: “We know the most sustainable cup is likely the one you already own.”

“Bringing your own cup to stores is a critical step toward in reducing single-use packaging waste,” she continued in the accompanying press release about the announcement. “Starbucks is now a leader in this work, as the first national retailer of scale to offer personal cup ordering in every channel, including mobile.”

“The NextGen Consortium is proud to have Starbucks as a founding member to reduce packaging waste and looks forward to supporting them in their work to advance a waste-free world.”