In 2024, McDonald’s Netherlands introduced reusable cups for in-restaurant dining in response to the Single-Use Plastic Directive (SUPD), a regulation aimed at reducing disposable plastic waste. Recognizing the logistical challenges associated with such a large-scale transition, McDonald’s implemented an internal SUPD projectteam and turned to HAVI Supply Chain’s Sustainable Solutions department for a solution that would be both operationally efficient and convenient for staff and customers.
The Challenge
When McDonald’s began trialing reusable cups in its restaurants in July 2023, it quickly became apparent that reusable packaging would put extra pressure on running efficient operations, from guest returning packaging to the lack of on-site washing capacity considering the high-volume demands. The challenge was clear: How could McDonald’s manage the collection, washing, and redistribution of reusable cups in a way that would integrate seamlessly with its existing operations, where food safety is an essential element of the process.
The Solution: A Closed-Loop System
HAVI Supply Chain stepped in to develop jointly a closed-loop solution that would address McDonald’s needs. The solution resulted in a new commercial service concentrated around HAVI’s core activity to offer supply chain solutions. The reusable cups are being distributed to the restaurants to be collected after use at location. HAVI created a backhaul-solution to store the used cups safely and hygienically in crates to be collected by HAVI’s Distribution trucks, ensuring no disruption to McDonald’s day-to-day operations.
The dirty cups were transported to dedicated external washing facilities to be cleaned according to McDonald’s health and safety standards. Once ready, the clean cups were routed back to HAVI’s DC to be redistributed to McDonald’s restaurants, ready for reuse. Cups that do not meet McDonald’s quality standards after washing are being recycled. This innovative approach enabled the seamless integration of the reusable cups initiative into McDonald’s existing supply chain and operations.
Results and Impact
Together with the washing facility and McDonald’s this milestone marked the seamless integration of the Reusable Cups Wash Cycle into HAVI’s logistical operations.
Building on success
We focus on continuous improvements to enhance both operational and environmental efficiency. Recently, HAVI has introduced color coding and improved traceability via barcodes to increase efficiencies. Looking ahead, the integration of AI capabilities will further refine the process by identifying and removing any defective cups, ensuring consistent quality standards by the washing facility.
Through close collaboration with McDonald’s and external washing facilities, HAVI has successfully created an airtight and optimal closed-loop system. This system is transparent, backed by data and insights, and represents a practical example of how innovative supply chain solutions and collaboration can deliver significant benefits.
Conclusion
As McDonald’s supply chain partner, HAVI has established an advanced solution with McDonald’s to comply with legislation and operational efficiency.
