Waitrose Introduces Trial of Reusable Coffee Cups with £3 Charge for Non-Return in 9 Stores

Waitrose is trialling an innovative change to its popular free hot drink offer, aiming to reduce plastic waste and encourage sustainability. The supermarket chain, which reinstated its complimentary coffee and tea promotion in 2022 after suspending it during the pandemic, is now introducing a reusable coffee cup borrowing scheme at nine of its stores.

As part of this trial, customers who are members of the MyWaitrose loyalty program can borrow a reusable cup from a dispenser by simply tapping their loyalty card. The cup can be used for seven days before it must be returned to the store. Should customers fail to return the cup within that period, they will incur a £3 charge.

Waitrose confirmed that this “Borrow a Free Cup” initiative began recently and is available exclusively to MyWaitrose members, allowing them to redeem a free hot drink without generating additional waste. Customers buying a hot drink at the store’s café may also participate. Those who prefer to bring their own reusable cup remain eligible for their free coffee, provided the cup fits under the self-service machine’s nozzle.

This move aligns with Waitrose’s ongoing efforts to promote sustainability. The supermarket has a history of encouraging customers to bring their own cups. Since 2018, it has ceased distributing disposable cups altogether, emphasizing reusable options. The free drink offer itself dates back to 2013, when it was initially introduced with the condition customers present reusable cups. This early policy helped position Waitrose as one of the UK’s largest coffee distributors, a development that attracted criticism from some independent café owners concerned about competition.

Waitrose has adjusted the terms of the free coffee scheme over the years in response to customer feedback and operational challenges. While originally the free drinks were handed out without purchase requirements, it later became mandatory for loyalty card holders to make a purchase. The new reusable cup borrowing trial adds flexibility for customers who prefer to enjoy their free drink before or during shopping while strengthening eco-friendly practices.

By blending convenience with environmental responsibility, Waitrose seeks to lead the way in reducing single-use plastic waste within the retail coffee sector.