Borrow Cup scheme to launch today

The UK’s first returnable cup initiative between multiple national brands, called “Borrow Cup” launches today in Glasgow for an initial 3-month trial, with the objective to reduce the 388 million disposable cups used in Scotland, annually. The scheme has been established by environmental charity Hubbub and reuse start-up Reposit.   The scheme participants are reported to include Costa Coffee, Caffè Nero and Burger King UK along with many other local cafes such as Tinderbox and Sprigg. The scheme has been funded by participating brands in collaboration with Ecosurety, Bunzl, British Plastics Federation and KFC.

The scheme operates with customers initially purchasing a drink at any participating venue, with customers then being presented with the option to use a “Borrow Cup” for a £1 deposit and will receive a discount or extra loyalty rewards at most participating locations. The cups will be available in three different sizes, and customers can return them at any participating venue to either use them again, swap for a clean cup for their next drink, or receive a return on their deposit (or a £1 voucher at a return point).