100% recyclable paper cups to replace single-use plastic cups in Coca-Cola HBC Hungary’s vending machines

Coca-Cola HBC Hungary is withdrawing its single-use plastic cups from the Hungarian market. The plastic cups, typically used in coffee- and other hot drink vending machines, will be replaced by fully recyclable paper cups in around 1000 hot drink vending machines across the country. The transition is gradual with the aim to be completed by the first half of 2022. The replacement of the cups is going to be an eye-catching and awareness-raising process, as Coca-Cola HBC Hungary, in cooperation with MOME, has launched a graphic design competition for students at the university. The goal is to create a new look for the paper cup that promotes consumer awareness and draws attention to the importance of keeping waste in the cycle, thus encouraging the recycling of paper cups.

In line with the company’s sustainability efforts, Coca-Cola HBC Hungary is withdrawing its plastic cups, which are typically used in coffee machines. By the first half of 2022, vending machines, mainly displayed in workplaces, educational institutions, supermarket lobbies, transport hubs, and healthcare facilities, are aimed to serve beverages only in cups made of 100% recyclable paper. By replacing the millions of cups used annually, the company will use between 25 and 30 tonnes less plastic.

"We cannot achieve our circular vision alone. The circular economy is built on collaboration, working together with consumers, decision-makers, industry players, and professional organisations towards a common goal. Creating a circular economy requires a multi-actor collaboration that we are also trying to empower. We seek active dialogue and cooperation. Our joint competition with MOME can become part of this dialogue as it aims to inform consumers that it truly matters what they drink their daily coffee from, and it is important that packaging remains part of the cycle," Orsolya Nyilas added. 

The introduction of the new cups made of 100% recyclable paper not only contributes to the sustainability of our physical environment, but builds our visual environment too, as the surface of the cup is also a communication platform. The transition starts with an exciting visual design competition. In order to achieve this plan, Coca-Cola HBC Hungary has invited the Moholy-Nagy University of Art and Design to a collaboration: the design of the paper cups will be selected from the work of MOME students. The entries are going to be judged by Orsolya Nyilas, External Communications Manager at Coca-Cola HBC Hungary, Sándor Horváth, At-Work Manager at Coca-Cola HBC Hungary, Balázs Vargha, Head of Media Institute at MOME, Réka Matheidesz, Head of EU Projects at MOME, and Lídia Gulyás, social media specialist and illustrator. The jury will select the winner and runners-up from a shortlist of 10 entries. The prize of the competition is a total of 1.6 million HUF (gross), and the winning design will be displayed in 1,000 vending machines nationwide.

"MOME is eager to participate in corporate or brand collaborations that have a forward-thinking innovative purpose, representing high-quality, excellence, and an important value. MOME's Media Institute and the Department of Graphic Design provided professional guidance and advice as well as university mobilisation for the project", said Balázs Vargha, Head of the MOME Media Institute and a member of the jury.

This is not the first time Coca-Cola has shown its commitment to promoting recycling through its packaging. With this year's Empty Bottles Also Matter campaign, the company has raised awareness of the importance of selective waste collection and reminded consumers on the caps and on their bottles that packaging of Coca-Cola products are 100% recyclable, so every bottle has a place in the circular economy.

Learn more about our circular economy and our World Without Waste strategy here.