Melbourne-based startup company UpperCup has released its new reusable coffee cup, with final stages of production funded by a successful crowdfunding campaign.
Designed, developed and manufactured in Melbourne, UpperCup said its product was guided by the principle “less, but better” and was engineered to be “both beautiful and functional”. The cup is made from BPA-free and recyclable materials.
“UpperCup is the simple, elegant and functional cup inspired by our daily coffee travels and the notion that good design can make our favourite rituals even more enjoyable,” said James McKay, UpperCup founder. “We believe in good design that enhances our experiences, that is innovative and long lasting,” he said.
“Sustainability is a crucial element in our journey and is all about marrying timeless design with the highest quality materials, to make a positive impact on the environment,” Mr McKay said.
After eighteen months of design and development, Uppercup ran a successful crowdfunding campaign through Pozible, raising $66,000 for the final tooling and production phases. The cup was also a multi-award winner at the 2013 Melbourne Design Awards (Product Design and Best Start Up awards).
The UpperCup
The double-walled cup is made of Tritan plastic and is ultrasonically welded. The result is a BPA-free design that both insulates the cup and avoids absorption of odours and flavours. It is fully recyclable.
The UpperCup has a rotating lid that can be turned to reveal a tilt-up spout and then resealed to prevent spills or splashes. The lid parts separate for easy cleaning and recycling at the end of the product’s life. The product is dishwasher safe.
The UpperCup is available in white and black in two sizes: 8oz and 12oz.
Australian coffee trends
The new UpperCup may benefit from changes in the last decade in how Australians consume coffee.
Australian Food News reported in June 2013 that consumption of barista-made coffee was on the rise, with fresh coffee purchases increasing from 24 per cent to 26 per cent between 2003 and 2011 and more than half of Australians aged 14 or over saying they had been to a cafe for coffee or tea in the last three months.
Data from global market research organisation IBISWorld in 2012 showed that the number of cafes and coffee shops in Australia had increased from 4,364 in 2002-03 to 6,261 in 2011-12.
