Restrictions on plastic tableware in Ukraine are not yet as broad as in the EU. The circulation of plastic bags is restricted by law, while the rules for other single-use plastics have not changed yet.
Coffee shops have time to prepare, and we at Future Cups recommend making use of it now. A gradual transition lets you test alternatives, calculate costs and maintain the quality of service.
Single-Use Tableware: Ukrainian Law and Possible Changes
European restrictions cover plastic cutlery, plates, straws, stirrers, certain containers and cups. These are what you should focus on when preparing for changes in Ukraine.
Start with a purchasing audit: list all single-use items, count their monthly consumption and identify possible alternatives. Plastic stirrers can be replaced with wooden ones, and for drinks we’ll help you choose paper cups in the right format.
Paper Cups Instead of Plastic: Type and Size to Match Your Menu
One universal cup for the whole menu is rarely convenient. Cups from 110 ml suit espresso, while cappuccino, latte and tea need larger sizes.
| Cup type | What sets it apart | Minimum branding run |
|---|---|---|
| Single-wall | One layer of board, usually the cheapest | from 5,000 pcs |
| Double Wall | Two layers with an air gap, retains heat better | from 2,500 pcs |
| Ripple | An extra outer layer, often needs no sleeve | from 10,000 pcs |
Before placing a large order, we recommend testing several options. Pour drinks of different temperatures and check whether the cup is comfortable to hold, how tightly the lid fits and whether it keeps its shape. That way you can judge the alternative to plastic cups on more than price.
Switching to Eco-Friendly Packaging for a Coffee Shop: What About Costs
The price of a cup depends on the type, size and print run. This is especially noticeable with branded cups: the larger the batch, the lower the price per cup.
But a large stock isn’t always cost-effective. Compare the minimum batch with your real monthly consumption and take available storage space into account. Calculate the cost of a cup together with printing, lids and accessories.
Where to Start
- Count how much single-use plastic your venue uses.
- Identify the items for which a convenient replacement already exists.
- Order a test batch of cups and try them out in practice.
- Set up a regular order based on your actual sales.
This way, a coffee shop can prepare for legislative changes without rushing, sharp cost increases or a drop in service quality. And we’ll help you choose cups and calculate the batch size at any stage.