Hospitality’s Plastic Problem
The hospitality industry has long been dependent on single-use plastics, especially straws. In 2025, however, global bans, customer expectations, and rising costs of plastic waste are pushing restaurants to ditch plastic straws for good.
Why Plastic Straws Are Outdated
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Global bans: The EU, US states, and parts of Asia have restricted single-use plastics.
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Customer demand: Diners expect eco options, especially Millennials and Gen Z.
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Environmental cost: 500 million straws are used daily in the US alone.
Plastic straws are no longer socially acceptable.
Natural Alternatives Taking Over
1. Grass Straws
EQUO’s grass straws are biodegradable, safe for hot and cold drinks, and sourced sustainably. Restaurants love them because they are cost-effective in bulk.
2. Rice Straws
Popular in Southeast Asia, rice straws are edible and compostable, adding novelty to dining experiences.
3. Paper Straws (with limits)
Still common, but prone to sogginess — which is why natural straws are preferred.
4. Reusable Metal/Glass
Best for cafes and upscale dining, but less convenient for casual restaurants.
Case Studies: Restaurants Making the Switch
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US Coffee Chains: Offering discounts for drinks with personal tumblers.
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Vietnamese Cafés: Bulk purchasing EQUO straws to align with government bans.
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European Hotels: Adopting EQUO’s compostable utensils and straws as part of corporate sustainability goals.
Benefits for Restaurants
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Cost savings: Bulk eco straws are cheaper long-term than fines for plastic.
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Customer loyalty: Diners reward eco-conscious businesses.
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Marketing advantage: “Plastic-free” branding drives traffic
EQUO’s Role in the Transition
EQUO provides bulk orders of grass straws and compostable utensils for restaurants, hotels, and festivals. With stylish retail packaging, EQUO also bridges the B2B2C gap — diners can buy what they use in restaurants for personal use.
2025 marks a turning point for the hospitality industry. Restaurants that switch to natural straws and compostable utensils not only comply with laws but also win customer trust. EQUO is leading the charge, making sustainability both practical and profitable.
