Starbucks offers free reusable cups to celebrate 50th anniversary

For a day, Starbucks was offering reusable cups to customers who purchased handcrafted beverage across selected APAC markets on 28 September as part of its mission waste to landfill by 50% by 2030. In markets of Hong Kong, Singapore and Malaysia, Starbucks customers were served their short, tall or grande beverages in a limited-edition 50th anniversary reusable cup. Customers are encouraged to bring back their cup when they visit Starbucks again to enjoy a discount and redeem additional offers. Hong Kong customers can enjoy a HK$4 discount when using the reusable cup on their next visit.

The company expected to reach more than two million customers across APAC on 28 September, adding that it hoped to create a culture of reuse among customers, employees and communities as one reusable cup can replace up to 30 single-use cups. “As we mark our anniversary milestone, this reusable cup is our gift to customers and our invitation to join Starbucks on our journey to becoming a resource-positive-company,” said Sara Trilling, president, Starbucks Asia Pacific.

“This step is only one part of many more to come. Together with our customers, we’re constantly innovating new ways to scale more sustainable solutions across the region," she added. 

Meanwhile, Singapore coffee chain Flash Coffee opened its first store in Hong Kong at Sheung Wan on 23 September. According to multiple reports, the company was seen to be opening more stores at Causeway Bay, Wanchai and Mong Kok. MARKETING-INTETRACTIVE searched the menu on Flash Coffee's website, the business offers six Hong Kong signatures including Flash Yuen Yeung, Peanut Butter Condensed Milk Latte, and Red Bean Iced Latte, wih the most expensive one being HK$41. 

However, when it comes to other beverages, the company charges up to HK$30. For example, an Oatly Cappuccino costs only HK$30 and a cup of Latte is priced at HK$25, about 35% lower the similar beverages offered by coffee chains such as Starbucks Hong Kong and Pacific Coffee. 

Flash Coffee said it offers top-quality premium roasts curated by global barista champions. It works with Timmy Lam, who is its head barista and won the Good Spirits Championship before. He is also responsible for bean selection and menu design at Flash Coffee Hong Kong.

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