Drinktec 2022: Cupex challenges throwaway coffee lids with ultra-convenient reusable alternative
31 Aug 2022 --- Cupex is expanding its range and starting series production of its reusable lid branded Comfort. With a raised lid profile (“dome”) and a large, oval drinking opening, the solution is particularly suitable for coffee specialties with creamy milk foam. The lid can be placed on the cup with one hand and then opened and closed again with a sliding movement.
The startup from Bautzen, Germany, was founded last year and has dedicated itself to the topic of spill-proof, reclosable to-go lids with a wide drinking opening. It will showcase its reusable lid at Drinktec 2022 in Munich, Germany, in September.
“In Germany, 1.3 billion disposable plastic lids are consumed each year. That’s an average of about 15 lids per person or 40 lids per adult. We want to completely replace these single-use plastic lids. Cupex reusable lids are easy to clean after use, by hand or in the dishwasher – even 15-40 times a year,” Cupex founder Gert Löwe tells PackagingInsights.
“Single-use plastic lids are often not the focus of discussions about sustainability. They are still widely used and are now sometimes simply offered as reusable.”
In Germany, a reported 1.3 billion disposable plastic lids are consumed each year.
What makes it special
With conventional to-go lids, the narrow drinking slit means drinks can easily leak through the small opening.
“Cupex reusable lids are not only more [environmentally] sustainable but also convenient to use. The large, oval drinking opening allows you to drink as if you were drinking from a cup and can be closed to prevent sloshing. In contrast, the usual to-go lids have a non-closable small drinking hole,” says Löwe.
For coffee on-the-go, the Cupex reusable lid offers a long-lasting alternative to single-use options. It fits all cups with a standard diameter of 90 mm and weighs only 13 g. The smart design with three easy-to-connect individual parts made of dimensionally stable PP ensures easy cleaning by hand or in the dishwasher.
The tasteless and odorless material used is 100% free of toxic BPA, acrylonitrile or other plastics. The lid is easily recyclable if it is disposed of properly, for example, via the dual system in Germany.
“Quick-service restaurants are part of our sales strategy like many points of sale for coffee-to-go,” adds Löwe.
Comparing to single-use lids
Non-reusable, single-use plastic is the conventional choice for coffee cup lids. Moreover, single-use disposable lids are usually imported, entailing long transport routes, continues Löwe.
“Based on the granules used, we do not use any water to make the lids. Cupex develops and produces in Germany, within strict German and European laws, ordinances and directives and additionally short transport distances,” he asserts.
Cupex reusable lids are easy to clean after use, by hand or in dishwashers.
With this combination of “excellent” drinking properties, spill-proof closure, easy handling and reusability in one product, Cupex claims to be breaking new ground. The company has patented the self-developed technology called “Easy Slide Lid.”
Furthermore, Löwe explains the use of PP is the result of a long and ongoing search for a suitable material for the Cupex reusable lids.
“PP is easily recyclable if it is disposed of properly, for example, via the dual system. It is heat and dishwasher resistant, tasteless, opaque and 100% free of toxic BPA and acryl nitrite.”
“We are also investigating whether our patented easy slide lid technology can be transferred to metal,” he adds.
Drinktec trends
Löwe says he expects environmental sustainability and resource consumption to be key themes at this year’s Drinktec trade show.
“As part of the drinktec startup platform, Cupex will be presenting its innovative reusable lids under the topic of consumer world and product design. We are looking forward to exchanging ideas with other young and innovative companies in the beverage industry.”
“We believe that the innovative product design of our Cupex reusable lids is well suited to the growing interest of consumers in sustainable living.”
“And, of course, the presence at such an important trade fair is linked to the goal of attracting the attention of possible partners, multipliers or resellers,” he concludes.
By Natalie Schwertheim
