Borrow Cup scheme launches in Glasgow

The Borrow Cup initiative, the UK’s 'first returnable cup scheme to unite national brands with local cafes', has officially launched in Glasgow. More than 50 venues, including Costa Coffee, Caffè Nero, Burger King, and several independent cafes such as Tinderbox and Sprigg, are participating in the project.

Launched on 27th January 2025 by Reposit in collaboration with creative charity Hubbub, the initiative aims to demonstrate how a collaborative model can enhance the success of returnable cup systems. It also seeks to explore how such a scheme can become environmentally and commercially viable.

Customers purchasing a drink at participating venues can opt for a reusable Borrow Cup by paying a £1 deposit. Incentives such as extra loyalty stamps at Caffè Nero or a 10% discount at Sprigg cafes are available to encourage adoption. Cups, offered in three sizes, can be returned at any participating location, where customers can either reuse, swap for a clean cup, reclaim their deposit, or receive a £1 voucher.

The initiative is funded by major brands including Ecosurety, Bunzl, British Plastics Federation, and KFC, with logistical support from Berry (cup supply), Electrolux (washing equipment), and Avery Dennison (RFID technology). Local organisations such as Keep Scotland Beautiful and Biffa have also contributed.

Advocates of the scheme highlight its potential environmental benefits, noting that returnable cup systems can reduce carbon emissions compared to producing and recycling single-use cups, particularly when cups are reused multiple times.