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If you frequently order takeaway, why not make a simple switch that saves you money and helps the environment? By borrowing reusable tableware – for free – you can enjoy discounts, earn rewards and reduce waste, all at the same time.
Since December 2024, Link has partnered with local eco-social enterprise ReCube to launch a pilot programme offering reusable tableware borrowing services. The initiative’s first phase includes eight eateries across Link REIT's shopping malls and fresh markets.
The Old Store, a tofu pudding shop at Link’s Tai Yuen Commercial Centre, is among the participating eateries. Owner Mr Ko sees the benefits firsthand: “By joining this programme, we’ve reduced our costs on disposable tableware. Plus, customers get a $3 discount on each takeaway order – it’s a win for them and a win for us,” he shares.
At the participating eateries, customers can borrow from a selection of three reusable containers – dining bowls, square boxes and cups. “These containers are incredibly durable,” adds Mr Ko. “Supporting government, community and Link-led environmental initiatives not only helps the planet, it also enhances our shop’s reputation.”
Since its founding in March 2023, ReCube’s tableware borrowing service has already been implemented at The Chinese University of Hong Kong and Hong Kong Baptist University, and the initiative is rapidly gaining traction. “We currently collaborate with 42 restaurants across the city,” says Kelvin Tsui, co-founder and CEO of ReCube. “Our partnership with Link stemmed from a social innovation competition they supported last year. After presenting our ideas to Link’s judging panel, we collectively agreed that piloting the programme in their shopping malls and fresh markets would be a natural fit.”
With Link’s extensive network of shopping centres, the partnership holds significant potential for scale. “Expanding our tableware borrowing services through Link could substantially amplify our environmental impact,” Kelvin adds.
Customers can borrow reusable tableware completely free of charge by simply downloading the ReCube app and completing a quick registration. Used containers can be returned unwashed at any participating restaurant. To encourage participation, ReCube is offering customers a $3 discount per takeaway order and the chance to earn reward points for future savings. “These incentives help make sustainability an easy and attractive choice,” Kelvin notes.
Following merchant training and briefings in November 2024, ReCube launched its promotional campaign with Link in mid-December. Within just two months, they have gathered extensive feedback from merchants. One of the key challenges identified is that elderly customers and those less familiar with smartphones find it cumbersome to use a mobile app to borrow containers and access discounts. Additionally, busy restaurant staff may not always have time to assist customers with the app.
To address these concerns, ReCube is exploring alternative solutions. “We’re developing a technical solution that will allow customers to borrow tableware without needing a mobile app,” Kelvin reveals. “Once this system is in place, we plan to extend it to our non-Link partner restaurants as well.”
Kelvin adds that their tableware borrowing service is particularly popular in university campuses and office areas, where students and employees frequently take meals back to their dormitories and workplaces. In these locations, the return rate reaches an impressive 98%.
According to Kelvin, tableware borrowing has seen significant growth in recent years. In late 2023, only a few thousand reusable containers were in circulation. By the end of 2024, that number had surged to 30,000, reflecting Hong Kong’s increasing environmental awareness.
On an international scale, reusable tableware services are already well-established in countries such as Germany, the United States, Canada and Singapore, with some governments mandating their availability in restaurants. “Hong Kong is still in the early stages,” Kelvin acknowledges. “We will continue exploring ways to enhance accessibility and expand our impact, making sustainable dining an effortless choice for more people.”
He encourages diners to give the service a try, reminding them that even small changes can make a big difference in protecting the environment.
