This project was pitched to Starbucks as a closed loop concept where they would sell and then reclaim these items, then recycle the material into new cups.
The constraints required:
- That the cups and lids must stack similarly to the paper cups
- The capacity remained the same
- External markings match the incumbent paper cup
- The lid is visually differentiated from the disposable, but has a similar drinking experience
The original concept strove to insure a familiar silhouette, size and features of the incumbent paper cup.
In addition to transporting the beverage, the paper cup is also a critical branding component and has connections with the Starbucks customers and their coffee-connected rituals, which could be an important part of their commute, or a key component of social outings with friends.
As part of the product development effort, PMI worked to develop a proprietary recyclable polypropylene material - eCycle - to insure quality control.
The proposal included the concept of having the cups be collected at the Starbucks store once they’d reached their end of life.
Starbucks continues to use this cup across the globe for their holiday and other promotions.