Blenheim Palace and the Eden Project have introduced a fully-operational, permanent returnable cup system designed by re-universe, establishing new sustainability benchmarks through digital technology that eliminates single-use coffee cups while providing a seamless user experience.

How does it work?

Re-universe offers two system options: deposit return or holding charge schemes, both designed for simplicity with “just tap” and “just drop” returns to achieve high cup return rates without requiring an app.

Deposit Return Scheme at Blenheim and Eden

When visitors order coffee, they choose from three options:

• Drink in – served in a ceramic cup

• Money off – by using their own reusable cup

• Drink out – with a venue-provided returnable cup

Visitors who borrow a returnable cup pay a deposit at purchase. Upon return, they tap their card or phone on a payment terminal and receive an instant refund, then leave.

Download the re-universe returnable cup brochure

Holding Charge

Customers borrow a reusable cup with a holding charge (pre-authorisation) placed on their card—no upfront deposit required. If not returned within the specified timeframe (up to 7 days), the charge becomes a penalty. Users simply drop cups at return points; the hold lifts automatically upon return.

Behind the Scenes

Each cup features unique RFID technology tracking its entire journey from purchase through return and washing. Real-time data enables clients to manage inventory, monitor return rates, assess stock levels, and measure impact for system improvements.

Each cup has its own identity via GS1 QR code, supporting personalized experiences and multiple simultaneous reuse schemes on the re-universe platform. The system integrates every cup and return point, with customization available to meet specific client needs.

Versatile and Flexible

The technology works anywhere—venues, workplaces, festivals, exhibitions, airports, travel hubs, or music events. A user-friendly dashboard provides real-time metrics including return rates, reuse rates, container status and location, return point usage, and washing progress. Handheld scanners enable quick stock checks and efficient asset management.

Tailored Integration

While re-universe offers standalone management, larger clients can integrate the system with existing IT and payment platforms for full ownership and control.

Measuring Success

These initiatives achieve return rates as high as 96%, significantly reducing carbon emissions and preventing single-use cups from reaching landfills.

Collaborations

The platform integrates Circular&Co. returnable cups and Cuploop return machines. Re-universe acknowledges support from Mastercard, Shift4, Avery Dennison, Smartrac, and GS1 UK.

David Green, Head of Innovation, Blenheim Palace: “The returnable cup scheme is a major step towards our Net Zero pledge, and it’s hugely gratifying to be working alongside re-universe and Eden Project in leading the way.”

Becky Fenner, Hospitality Manager, Eden Project: “Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do here at the Eden Project…we’re delighted to be working with re-universe…to better understand engagement and impact.”

Get in touch

Interested in switching to reuse? Contact re-universe at hello@re-universe.com

Download the re-universe returnable cup brochure