Drink. Return.

Returnable Cup System: 2 Month Update

It’s been two months since we launched our returnable cups system at our Scoresby Street coffee shop, and we wanted to share some of the results of the project so far:

The numbers:
In our first two months, over 2,000 customers chose returnable, with an average return rate of 85%. Most customers returned their cups within just a couple of days, and late returns remained low. This translates to an estimated 119 kg of CO₂e savings compared to single-use cups.

Addressing challenges:
After feedback from customers, we’ve extended the returns window to 20 days, giving more flexibility to choose returnable, with cups remaining free to use if returned within this window. As with any sustainability initiative, encouraging behaviour change is an ongoing process, and we’re learning what works best to support our customers in choosing returnable.

Implementing sustainable, lasting change is a journey, and we’re grateful for everyone who’s joined us so far. We’re learning more each day on operating in a more circular way, and each returnable cup that goes out is another step closer to that goal.