Marks & Spencer UK will roll out fully recyclable paper cups to all of its cafes and food halls, it was announced today.
The retailer will introduce the paper fibre cups and lids to over 300 stores across the UK from next month.
The fully recyclable-in-household on-the-go cup first launched in 20 stores in October.
As sustainability is a key concern of consumers, Marks & Spencer aims to remove 20 million units of plastic packaging each year from its food business.
Last year, the retailer met its 2023/24 goal of removing 75 million units of plastic.
The introduction of recyclable paper packaging across sandwiches and toasties in its cafes was significant in reaching that goal.
This change alone reduced plastic packaging by 4.5 million units that year.
Marks & Spencer cafes offer a 50p discount on hot drinks for customers who bring reusable cups with them.
Where this is not possible, the retailer aims to reduce unnecessary plastic waste with the new cup design.
The director of hospitality at M&S Food, Alicia Thompson, welcomed the move.
Thompson said, “Our goal is to offer customers the most sustainable cup of coffee on the high street.
“Our customers care strongly about reducing plastic, and they’ve supported our move to paper fibre cups.
“With no impact to the taste or temperature of their hot drink – and now 100% recyclable – this is one of the ways we’re supporting our customers to make small changes in their everyday lives, which have a big impact on the environment.”
Marks & Spencer uses 100% Fairtrade coffee in its cafes and stores, and only RSPCA-assured milk.
The change to sustainable packaging is the latest move in forwarding the company’s sustainability mission.
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