In the discussion about sustainability at events, the focus is often on environmental impact, regulations, and costs. But what about the visitor’s own experience? How does drinking from a reusable cup compare to a single-use cup? In this blog, we delve into the customer experience, with insights from recent research and practical observations.
For many visitors, the experience of a drink begins the moment they hold the cup. A single use cup is light, flexible and feels familiar, it is what many people are used to. They are easy to stack, quick to hand out, and once the drink is finished, there is nothing more to think about. That can be convenient.
At the same time, single use cups are sometimes perceived as cheap. In warm weather, they can become soft, and when filled with a heavy drink, they may feel awkward to hold. Especially at festivals where people move around a lot, this can lead to spills or a sense of throwaway culture.
Reusable cups, on the other hand, are sturdy, stable and pleasant to hold. They give some visitors the impression that more care has been taken with what they are served. They often feel nicer to drink from, and many people say it gives them a better overall feeling. Others, however, find it inconvenient to carry the cup around or to return it. And if the system is not clearly explained, it can cause confusion.
The first moment of physical contact sets the tone, but the experience differs from person to person.
2. Behaviour and convenience
A key difference between the two systems lies in what happens after the drink is finished. Even with single use cups, many visitors now hold on to their cup for a refill. The real difference comes at the final drink. In practice, single use cups are often not returned but thrown away. They frequently end up on the ground or beside overflowing bins.
With reusable cups, the idea is that they are returned at a designated point or kept for the next drink. This requires a little more attention and cooperation. Many events use a deposit system, where visitors get their money back upon return. This increases motivation, but requires a well-functioning return process. If return points are hard to find, or if people lose their cup, this can lead to frustration.
Nonetheless, research by Green Events shows that visitors are often willing to take part in a reusable system, especially if it is clearly explained and well organised.
3. Hygiene and perception
One common concern with reusable cups is hygiene. Visitors want to be certain that a cup has been properly cleaned. Events using professional washing facilities or mobile rinsing units can provide that assurance. Transparency about the cleaning process, such as through visuals or QR codes, helps build trust.
Single use cups are often seen as more hygienic, but this is mostly a matter of perception. In reality, reusable cups that are properly cleaned are just as hygienic, according to a study by Wageningen University, 2019.
4. Experience influences behaviour
Interestingly, the type of cup influences behaviour. Organisers often notice that reusable cups are less likely to be dropped on the ground. They feel more valuable, so visitors tend to treat them with more care. This results in cleaner grounds and a more pleasant atmosphere.
At the same time, some events have found that switching to reusable cups led to more litter, especially if the system was new to the audience or if there was little guidance.
So it is not just the cup itself, but the way the system is set up, that determines success.
5. Preference for reusable comes from different directions
Research by Emerald Publishing, 2024, shows that visitors see reusable cups not only as more environmentally friendly, but also as higher in quality and more socially accepted. The appearance of the cup and the feeling that others are doing the same play an important role in shaping preference. When the system is clearly explained and well supported, people are more likely to choose reusable, even if it offers slightly less convenience.
Conclusion, experience makes the difference
The choice between reusable and single use cups goes beyond sustainability or regulations. For visitors, it is about convenience, comfort, clarity and trust. A single use cup is light and familiar, and requires little effort. A reusable cup feels more solid, gives a more thoughtful impression, but also asks a bit more from both the visitor and the organiser.
What stands out is that the experience of the system is closely linked to how it is implemented. With clear communication, enough return points and good overall organisation, many visitors are not only willing to take part, but even prefer reusable solutions. The cup plays a role, but the bigger picture ultimately shapes the experience.
There is no clear winner, but there is plenty to gain from a smart and well supported approach. That is where the key lies to a successful and positive visitor experience.
