Netherlands | Social impact
CupXchange Opens New Washing Facility in Eindhoven: Circular, Social, and Future Ready
On March 12, social enterprise CupXchange will open a brand new location in Eindhoven. Together with social employment organization Ergon, they are launching a social washing facility for reusable cups—an important new step in their mission to make the Netherlands more sustainable and more inclusive.
SUP Regulations drive change — and CupXchange delivers the solution
Since January 1, 2024, businesses, festivals, and hospitality venues are no longer allowed to use single use cups containing plastic. This measure, introduced as part of the European SUP Directive, aims to reduce the number of disposable cups by 40%. For many organizations, this means it’s time for a new approach. CupXchange helps make that transition smooth and manageable.
From cup to washing line: A fully circular system
CupXchange makes reuse easy. Durable, reusable cups circulate in a fully closed loop in which every cup is used again. Through their coffee cup subscription for companies, CupXchange takes care of collection, professional cleaning, and redistribution. This helps reduce waste, lower CO₂ emissions and save raw materials. CupXchange also supports events with complete reusable cup systems, and they offer dishwashing services for cups and other reusable packaging.
People first: Meaningful work at the core
What makes CupXchange especially unique is its successful combination of social and sustainable goals. The organization creates jobs for people who face barriers to the labor market, working together with social partners in various Dutch cities. In addition to employment, the social enterprise provides a meaningful and sustainable work experience. Employees take on a range of responsibilities, helping them develop personally and increase their self reliance.
Rabo Foundation as development partner
CupXchange is not doing this alone. Rabo Foundation supports social entrepreneurs who create opportunities for people with limited access to the labor market, with a particular focus on initiatives in the circular economy and sustainable food systems. In addition to capital, Rabo Foundation provides coaching, networks, and knowledge—giving entrepreneurs the chance to grow when traditional financing isn’t readily available. For CupXchange, this support is a crucial push toward scaling up and building a strong, future proof business model.
The Eindhoven location is the first in the southern Netherlands, following earlier sites in Utrecht, Arnhem, Amsterdam, and The Hague. With this new location, CupXchange demonstrates that sustainable choices don’t have to be complicated—and that social impact and circular innovation can truly strengthen one another.