How many reusable cups do
I need?
When organising an event, choosing reusable cups is an important step towards sustainability. But how do you determine how many cups you actually need? The right number depends on several factors, such as the size of your event, the number of bars or serving points, the expected visitor numbers, and the duration of the event.
A useful rule of thumb is to consider the average use per visitor. At a one day festival a guest typically uses three to five cups, depending on the range of drinks on offer and how busy it is. At multi day events this number tends to be higher, as visitors place orders more frequently across several days. The type of event also matters, since a sports match with short peak moments requires a different approach from a multi day music festival.
It is also important to account for the return rate of the cups. At events with a deposit system the majority of cups are returned, but never all of them. A small percentage is either kept by visitors or lost. For this reason it is wise to include a buffer of around ten to fifteen percent extra, so you do not risk running out of cups during your event.
The number of serving points also plays a role. If you have many bars spread out across a large site, you will need more cups in circulation to ensure sufficient stock everywhere. Make sure the logistics of collecting, washing, and redistributing cups are well organised, so you can operate efficiently with a limited number of cups.
In summary, consider the number of visitors, the duration and type of event, the return rate, and the logistical layout of the venue. By carefully factoring these elements in, you can estimate quite accurately how many reusable cups you will need, ensuring a smooth and sustainable event experience.
