Tim Hortons has just previewed their zero waste initiative that will give guests the option of paying a deposit and receiving reusable and returnable cups or food containers with their order to help reduce single-use waste.
When guests are finished their drink or meal, they can return their reusable cups or food containers at a participating restaurant and have their deposit refunded. The reusable cups and food containers are then professionally cleaned and sanitized by a partnering company Loop so they can be reused again and again. It’s anticipated that over time, the Loop platform would have a growing number of drop-off locations — both at Tim Hortons restaurants and elsewhere — that would make the program even more convenient for guests to participate in.
The pilot test is expected to start in 2021 at select Toronto restaurants.
“To really make an impact, we know we need to do something completely different. And as Canada’s quick service restaurant leader, we also know it’s our responsibility to be bold in that change. That’s why we’re really excited to be announcing this industry-leading initiative. A first of its kind in Canada that focuses on reusables,” said Hope Bagozzi, Chief Marketing Officer of Tim Hortons.
“Throughout Waste Reduction Week we’ve been making announcements about the many ways we’re working to use more recycled materials, make our products more recyclable, and reduce waste. Yesterday’s announcement on the end of double-cupping will eliminate the use of 200 million cups over the next year. Adding a reusable option to our sustainability packaging mix sets us apart in our journey to reduce waste.”
In February, Tim Hortons announced plans to give away nearly two million reusable cups as part of a 10-year commitment to change consumer perceptions and habits towards using reusable cups. That plan was paused due to the pandemic but will be relaunched when possible.
“During COVID, we have seen that consumers have relied more on single-use cups and containers due to health restrictions. This initiative by Tim Hortons signals that getting back to adopting reusable containers will be important when those restrictions are lifted,” said Tom Szaky, TerraCycle and Loop CEO.
“This partnership with Tim Hortons will allow guests to easily bring reusability into their daily lives, and whether they choose to eat-in or takeaway, they will be able to get some of their favourite food and drinks in a reusable container.”
