Starbucks eliminates disposable cups at four stores in Jeju, South Korea

Starbucks eliminates disposable cups at four stores in Jeju, South Korea

Today, four Starbucks stores in Jeju, South Korea, are the first to fully complete the shift to reusable cups as part of the market’s commitment to eliminate single-use cups at all stores by 2025. Customers can enjoy beverages in dine-in mugs, clean personal cups, and or reusable to-go cups, and earn extra bonus stars for Starbucks Rewards members for up to one month.

The new reusable program is part of the company’s broader goal to reduce waste by 50% by 2030, inviting partners and customers along on the journey make reusable cups a regular part of the Starbucks Experience. Starbucks currently operates 23 stores in Jeju, and plans to expand the program to all stores by October 2021, a move expected to eliminate approximately 5 million disposable cups annually.

To participate in the reusable to-go cup program, customers can pay a deposit of KRW 1,000 that is refunded when the cups are brought back to a dedicated return kiosk at the four participating stores or at the Jeju Airport. The used cups are then cleaned, sterilized and dried by a third-party before being returned to circulation in stores. Available in Tall and Grande sizes, each reusable to-go cup is made from BPA-free material designed for temperatures ranging from -20 to 105 degrees Celsius, perfect for both hot and iced beverages.

thumbnail for Starbucks ceo Laxman Narasimhan visits partners in China

Starbucks ceo Laxman Narasimhan visits partners in China