Starbucks advances reusables with California 'Borrow A Cup' trial

In line with their commitment to sustainability, Starbucks has launched a reusable cup trial across 12 stores in Napa and Petaluma, California.

Running from August 14 to October 22, customers at these locations can bring their own cups, use Starbucks' Borrow A Cup option, or select For Here Ware – reusable ceramic or glass cups for those choosing to stay in the café.

To conduct this trial, Starbucks partnered with TURN Systems, utilising their advanced collection bins to track cup return patterns. Customers who bring their clean cups will receive the standard $0.10 discount along with an extra 25 Bonus Stars for Starbucks Rewards members. Upon returning a borrowed cup, customers can register online with TURN for a chance to win a prize.

These reusable tests align with Starbucks' goal to halve its waste footprint by 2030, including ensuring all customer packaging becomes reusable, recyclable, or compostable.

Building on over 25 such tests worldwide, this California initiative adds to Starbucks' ongoing efforts in the U.S., including successful trials in Colorado and Arizona.

Amelia Landers, vp, Business Strategy, Partner & Customer Solutions, said: Our latest round of reusables tests around the world contribute to our goal for all customer packaging to be reusable, recyclable, or compostable in the future. We know our partners and customers care about the planet, and we’re proud to offer them ways to join us in in making sustainable choices in their everyday lives.

The SODO 8 store within Starbucks' Seattle headquarters has been using reusable cups for all beverages since March 2022.