Brewing change: How Starbucks Hong Kong & Muuse are tackling single-use waste
- Editorial Team

- Apr 14, 2025
- 1 min read
Picture a typical morning at any Starbucks in Hong Kong: The espresso machines hum, baristas call out orders, and customers rush in and out.
But instead of walking away with single-use cups destined for trash bins, customers now scan QR codes and borrow reusable containers that can be returned at any of 35 locations across the city.
This transformation is born from a strategic partnership between Starbucks and Muuse, addressing key challenges that many businesses face when implementing sustainability initiatives.
Brewing shift away from single-use waste

Key results at a glance:
73,000+ reusable cups borrowed to date
30 single-use cups replaced by just one reusable cup
Expanded from 3 to 35 locations following successful pilot
Zero deposit required from customers
30-second signup process
Can reusable systems work for major chains?
The Starbucks implementation in Hong Kong shows that with the right technology partner, major chains can successfully integrate reusable systems without disrupting operations or customer experience.
How to address customer adoption barriers for waste reduction?
The Starbucks-Muuse partnership tackles this through:
Quick digital account setup
No deposits required
Convenient return options
Want the complete Starbucks case study?
Read our get the complete case study and learn how your business can implement a similar system tailored to your specific needs.
In the meantime,
Rethink. Reuse. Return.



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