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Freedonia Market Research Blog Coronavirus Concerns Causing Starbucks to Temporarily Eliminate Beverage Service in Reusable Cups

Coronavirus Concerns Causing Starbucks to Temporarily Eliminate Beverage Service in Reusable Cups

by Freedonia Industry Studies

March 5, 2020

In January 2020, Starbucks announced a new set of sustainability goals through 2030, which included further movement from single-use to reusable packaging. This shift includes cups as the company has been both participating in the NextGen Cup Challenge and giving customers $0.10 discounts if they bring their own cup or request to use a reusable ceramic mug in-store.

However, Starbucks, which is headquartered in Seattle where a virus cluster has resulted in 10 reported deaths related to COVID-19 to date, announced on March 4 that it would be suspending the use of reusable cups as part of its efforts to respond to the public health crisis. This move is framed by Starbucks as temporary, and the reusable cups will be back when the outbreak dissipates.

The impact, although temporary, is not insignificant. This is a speedbump on the path toward getting Starbucks customers – and others – to change their habits, something that is needed for greater adoption of reusable cup policies.

Still, foodservice businesses are expected to increasingly consider more sustainable packaging options (e.g., fiber-based, recyclable, compostable, and reusable products) for cups, lids, and carryout containers in the coming years.

For more information see The Freedonia Group’s Foodservice Single-Use Products report.

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