Starbucks launches a reusable Borrow A Cup program at three stores in Singapore

Starbucks today announced the launch of its first Borrow A Cup program in Singapore across three stores in the National University of Singapore (NUS) from January to May 2022. With one reusable cup replacing up to 30 single-use cups*, the program aims to encourage customers to shift away from single-use cups as part of Starbucks global goal to reduce waste sent to landfills by 50% by 2030.

With many customers enjoying their Starbucks® beverage on the go, the program invites customers to enjoy the convenience in using reusables, while making a positive impact on the planet. Following similar programs in South Korea, Japan and the United States, Starbucks will take learnings from the Singapore pilot program to develop insights to drive meaningful change in stores, while informing future innovation on a global scale.

“We are thrilled to kickstart the Borrow A Cup program in Singapore,” said Patrick Kwok, General Manager of Starbucks Singapore. “At Starbucks, we are constantly testing new innovations that can bring our communities and business partners together around this shared desire to make a positive impact for the planet. We invite customers to join us on our resource-positive journey by choosing reusables as a part of their everyday Starbucks Experience.”

Customers can order their beverage in a reusable cup through the Borrow A Cup program at no additional charge*. In addition, customers who bring their personal cups or opt for the borrowed cup will enjoy 50 cents off from their drink purchase.

Starbucks has partnered with Muuse, a smart system of reusable to-go containers, which allows customers to borrow cups by scanning a QR code on the cup using the Muuse App and enjoy their handcrafted beverage from anywhere. Customers can then bring the used cup back to dedicated return stations at the participating stores to be professionally cleaned and sanitized.

Jonathan Tostevin, CEO of Muuse said, “We are really excited to launch this partnership with Starbucks to save single-use waste at NUS, using the Muuse platform to enable the reuse of Starbucks cups. We believe that this signals the future for all takeaway as we head towards a more circular economy.”

The participating Starbucks stores include NUS Techno Edge, NUS University Town, and NUS Wet Science Building.

*All reusable cups will be professionally cleaned and sanitized by Muuse after each return by the customers, and each reusable cup can be reused for up to 30 times.
*If returned within 14 days. Customers who do not return the cup within the stipulate period will be charged SGD$4 on their saved credit or debit card in the Muuse app.