Huskee has formally introduced its ‘Borrow by Huskee’ system, which is claimed to be Australia’s first turnkey reusable cup initiative, at the Melbourne International Coffee Expo (MICE).
Scheduled for an official launch in Barangaroo this June, the system aims to simplify the use of reusable takeaway cups, offering a more convenient solution for both consumers and businesses.
Through the programme, customers can borrow a reusable Huskee cup when they purchase a drink from participating cafés.
The cups are available in 8oz and 12oz sizes and must be returned to a participating café or SmartBin within 14 days. These returned cups will then be cleaned and prepared for reuse.
The process is streamlined through the dedicated ‘Borrow’ app. Customers use the app to scan a QR code on their cups when making a purchase.
The app allows Huskee to monitor cup usage and track environmental benefits, including reductions in carbon emissions and waste diversion.
A key feature of the system is the SmartBin technology, which ensures only cups with valid QR codes are returned, preventing contamination.
Additionally, the app includes a ‘Smart Locations’ feature to help users find the nearest return point for their borrowed cups.
The Borrow cups comprise 100% polypropylene (PP), a material that is claimed to be durable and safe for food contact.
Once a cup reaches the end of its life cycle, it is recycled through Huskee’s closed-loop initiative, HuskeeLoop.
With the system now live, Huskee is reaching out to domestic cafes and businesses interested in joining the programme.
Huskee co-founder Saxon Wright said: “We are incredibly proud to announce Borrow by Huskee.
“This new approach aims to simplify and streamline the BYO [bring-your-own] and reusable drink sector, removing the need to remember to bring a reusable cup.
“Our goal is to make it easier and more accessible than ever for people to support circular solutions. Starting in Sydney, we aim to expand and scale this year, rolling out this service to as many venues as possible across the country.”
