Cup Recommendations for Growing Coffee Shops

Complete Guide to Cup Types, Functions and Reasons for Choosing Them

The coffee shop started to develop is in the most crucial phase.
It's no longer just "selling coffee", however build a trusted brand.

At this stage:

  • the quality of the coffee is okay

  • customers start to be loyal

  • stable sales

  • and the brand name started to be known

The problem:
Lots of coffee shops stuck naik kelas karena the packaging does not develop.

However, in the eyes of consumers:

cup = quality
cup = fair price
cup = whether or not a brand is intentional

Characteristics of a Coffee Shop That Has Entered the Development Stage

Usually have these signs:

  • Sales are starting to be consistent

  • Menu additions (iced coffee with milk, signature, seasonal)

  • Sudah mulai main Instagram / delivery app

  • Customers are starting to recognize the brand, not just the taste.

At this point, the cup should expand as well.

1. PET Cup (Clear Cup) – For Cold & Visual Menus

Suitable for:

    • Iced coffee with milk

    • Cold latte

    • Signature layered drink

Why PET?

    • Transparent → drink contents become “visual sales”

    • Suitable for IG content & customer stories

    • Looks more modern than a plain cup

Important tips:
Use 1–2 color screen printing or clean stickers.
Too crowded actually reduces the premium impression.

2. SJP (Single Wall Paper Cup) – For Daily Take Away

Suitable for:

    • Americano

    • Hot latte

    • Fast food menu

Why SJP

    • Costs are still efficient

    • Looks much more professional than plain cups

    • Easy to customize logo & brand colors

Notes:
In the developing stage, avoid generic designs.
Minimum clear logo + consistent colors.

3. Poly Cup – Budget Solution but Still Branding

Suitable for:

    • Event

    • Promo

    • Large volume sales

Why Poly Cup?

    • Cheaper than PET

    • You can still screen print logos

    • Suitable for coffee shops that are starting to expand sales

👉 Poly cups are not cheap, as long as the design is correct.

Common Mistakes in the Development Stage (Must Avoid)

❌ Still using thin cups
❌ Design changes with each order
❌ Small & hard to read logo
❌ Cup is inconsistent between hot & cold menu

If this still happens, your brand looks like it hasn't leveled up yet.

Cup Strategy to Make Your Brand Look Upscale

✔ Use maximum 2 main colors
✔ Clear logo from a distance of 1 meter
✔ Match the color tone of the cup with your Instagram feed
✔ Choose a cup lid that is neat & sturdy

Remember:

People may forget the taste of your coffee,
But they remember brands that show intent.