The hospitality industry is embracing eco-friendly practices now more than ever. As consumer demand grows for sustainable products and experiences, many hotels, restaurants and event venues are looking for ways to reduce their environmental impact. One area of focus is drinkware.
According to a 2022 survey by the National Restaurant Association, 65% of consumers said they actively look for and are willing to pay more for restaurants that are environmentally friendly. With disposable cups, glasses and utensils accounting for a massive portion of waste in the industry, switching to reusable options is an impactful yet easy change.
In 2023, reusable drinkware is expected to skyrocket in popularity. Here are some of the biggest trends to look out for:
Durable Plastic Drinkware
Tritan plastic has emerged as an eco-friendly alternative to single-use plastic. Made from BPA-free, food-grade plastic, tritan drinkware is shatter-resistant, 100% recyclable, and dishwasher safe for repeated use.
Popular products like reusable plastic cups, tumblers and straws are being adopted by major hotel chains, music festivals and sports stadiums. For example, Marriott International plans to replace tiny shampoo bottles with tritan bottles that can be refilled. With heightened durability and customizability, tritan gives the familiarity of plastic with sustainability.
Reusable Glassware
Glass drinkware never truly went out of style, but it is making a big comeback. Custom engraved glassware offers an upscale, vintage aesthetic while still being environmentally responsible.
Glass is also naturally bacteria-resistant, making it ideal for restaurants. High-end glass water bottles and drink tumblers are also growing in popularity. According to Zion Market Research, the global glass tableware market is projected to reach $16.53 billion by 2027.
Multi-Use Coffee Cups
Disposable coffee cups are a huge culprit for waste in cafes and coffee shops. But reusable tumblers and mugs are a convenient swap. Options like Ecoffee Cup and Kinto Travel Mug provide the insulation of plastic cups with the sustainability of glass and metal.
Collapsible coffee cups like Stojo are also on the rise for their portability. Most major coffee chains like Starbucks now offer small discounts for customers who bring reusable cups.
Sustainable Materials
Sustainable materials like bamboo, wheat straw and sugarcane are being used to create eco-friendly drinkware. Brands like BrūMate and Green Paper Products offer reusable straws and cups made from renewable bamboo fibers.
Wheat straw, an agricultural byproduct, is biodegradable and compostable. Sugarcane melamine, made from sugarcane pulp, is durable and long-lasting. These innovative materials preserve resources while reducing trash.
Design for Reuse
In addition to material, the design of reusable drinkware makes all the difference for functionality and usability.
Features like silicone sleeves, handles, straws and lids increase utility and make reusable bottles and tumblers easier for guests to bring along and continue using. Cups and glasses designed for stacking also optimize storage.
Brands like Klean Kanteen and Yeti Rambler have perfected reusable drinkware design through extensive product testing and consumer feedback. Their products integrate both form and function for sustainability.
Making the Switch
Transitioning from single-use to reusable drinkware is easier than it may seem. Here are some tips for hospitality businesses looking to make the change:
- Start small: Swap out plastic straws and coffee stirrers for reusable options first. Then expand to cups and glasses.
- Offer incentives: Offer discounts or rewards to guests who bring their own reusable cups or bottles.
- Try a pilot program: Test out a few reusable products first before committing.
- Track savings: Calculate cost reductions from less waste and disposable purchases.
- Train staff: Educate all employees on reusable practices and your sustainability goals.
With mindful planning and execution, reusable drinkware provides tremendous value for hospitality businesses seeking an eco-friendly strategy that also enhances guest experiences. Now is the time to leverage the innovative products and consumer demand pushing sustainability forward in hospitality.
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