Oct
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Sustainable Ideas to Jumpstart Your Coffee Sales

Posted on October 7, 2019 by Ash Bennett

Competition can be stiff when it comes to coffee sales. High-visibility franchises can make it difficult for independent cafes and coffee shops to compete. Besides offering a great cup of coffee, what else can you do to encourage customers to choose your cafe over the big chains? Many customers only care about what’s in the cup, but for some, what the coffee comes in is just as important. As more consumers focus on decreasing their carbon footprint, savvy retailers can make a difference by offering products that come in eco-friendly packaging.

In the Australia alone, nearly 1 billion coffee cups end up in landfills each year. Coffee cups have a high-fiber paper content that makes them difficult to recycle. While millions of coffee cups are placed in recycling bins, the sad truth is that the vast majority are not even recycled. Consumers may feel that they are doing their part to save the planet, but billions of cups worldwide end up in landfills because the plastic, ink, and coating on most cups make them impossible to recycle.

What does this mean for your business? Offering reusable cups in your business is one way to encourage customers to do their part. Set your business apart by making it easier for consumers to “go green.” Nudging them into changing their consumption habits could have a drastic impact on the usage of disposable cups. Some retailers encourage customers to use reusable cups by offering discounts. Offer disposable cups at assorted sizes and price points. Reward usage with frequent-use or loyalty programs.

Invest in sustainable packaging and products. Check with packaging providers for recyclable or compostable packaging. You could also partner with your provider on any recycling programs they may offer. While it is not easy to have a robust recycling program, due to the nature of consumption, most customers consume their coffee away from your business, either in homes or offices. There is still an opportunity for you to carve out a niche and separate yourself from the big chains.

Eco-friendly packaging is a trend that is likely to develop into an environmental push. Be on the forefront now and become a leader in your industry. Being a catalyst for change is not impossible. Please see our vast range of environmental friendly packaging