#Italy #Starbucks #Brescia #Lavazza #Qwarzo

Qwarzo's Expansion in Europe

Overview of Qwarzo's Innovative Technology

Qwarzo, an Italian company based in Brescia, specializes in creating advanced materials for food packaging. Their unique silica-based mineral coating offers a sustainable alternative to traditional plastic linings used in single-use products. This coating serves as an exceptional barrier against various factors, such as water, grease, oxygen, and heat, effectively preserving the integrity of containers and the flavor of beverages.

The company has been rapidly expanding its reach across Europe, with major partnerships with renowned coffee brands such as Starbucks and Lavazza. This expansion marks a significant step towards enhancing sustainability in the food service industry.

Adoption by Major Brands

Starbucks Partnership

In May 2025, Starbucks launched a new hot cup and lid that incorporates Qwarzo's proprietary technology. This product replaces internal plastic liners and lids, making these items fully recyclable with paper and compostable at home. Made from cellulose fibers sourced responsibly from Northern Europe, the cup's design ensures durability even with hot liquids.

Starbucks has communicated its commitment to sustainability through this innovation, announcing that the new cup is currently available in Italy, Germany, France, Spain, Portugal, Austria, Switzerland, and Hungary, with plans for expansion into the UK and Ireland by late 2025.

"By integrating Qwarzo's coated cups into our operations, we are making strides towards reducing plastic waste and improving material recovery," stated Vincent Mooji, Director of Circpack by Veolia, highlighting the positive environmental impact of this partnership.

Lavazza's Adoption

Similarly, Lavazza in Spain has embraced Qwarzo's technology by utilizing Qwarzo®-coated cups in its coffee vending machines. This adoption showcases the versatility of Qwarzo's innovation in high-volume scenarios, demonstrating how it can function seamlessly within automated distribution systems.

Recognition and Industry Impact

Qwarzo's efforts to combat plastic waste and enhance the sustainability of food packaging have not gone unnoticed. The company has received several accolades, including the title of "Sustainability Leaders 2025" by Il Corriere della Sera and Statista, along with the Semi Innovation Award and the Tocco Future Materials Award. This recognition reinforces Qwarzo's reputation as a leader in sustainable packaging solutions.

Products featuring Qwarzo's innovative coatings are confirmed to be free from intentionally added PFAS and microplastics, complying with EU regulations and certifications like DIN CERTCO. The technology not only avoids compromising the taste and safety of food and beverages but also emphasizes recyclability, enhancing its appeal to eco-conscious consumers.

Conclusion

As Qwarzo consistently pioneers advancements in sustainable food packaging, its partnerships with leading brands like Starbucks and Lavazza represent a critical shift in the industry. The move towards reducing plastic dependency while providing durable, high-performance packaging alternatives demonstrates an exciting trend in consumer products and retail. With ongoing innovations and growing recognition, Qwarzo is set to play a vital role in shaping the future of sustainable packaging across Europe and beyond.

For more information, visit Qwarzo's official site.