The Case for Multi-Use Plastics for Custom Cocktail Serves
In today’s climate-conscious world, the word plastic has developed a controversial reputation. With the global shift away from single-use plastics, industries like hospitality have had to rethink how they serve and present drinks. While disposable plastics are being phased out, multi-use plastics offer a smart, sustainable, and highly functional alternative — especially for busy bars and custom cocktail presentations.
Why Consider Multi-Use Plastics in Hospitality?
Multi-use plastics bring several advantages to the table in a fast-paced hospitality environment:
Durability – Resistant to shattering, unlike glass
Lightweight and stackable – Easy to store and transport
Glass-free compliance – Perfect for venues with restrictions on glassware
Dishwasher safe – Built for repeated use and fast cleaning cycles
Cost-effective – Lower price points compared to glass or ceramic
Customisable – Available in a variety of shapes, colours, and finishes
These benefits make multi-use plastic drinkware an ideal solution for high-volume cocktail service — whether at festivals, rooftop bars, beach clubs, or themed venues.
Plastic vs. Glass: What’s the Manufacturing Difference?
When it comes to production, multi-use plastics offer a simpler and more affordable alternative to glassware:
Lower setup costs: Tooling for plastics is typically cheaper than for glass.
Faster production timelines: Plastic injection molding is rapid, allowing for quicker turnarounds.
Lower minimum order quantities (MOQs): Great for small runs or seasonal menu items.
More flexible design capabilities: Complex shapes and branding are easier to achieve than many expect.
While glass requires energy-intensive furnace work and slow cooling processes, plastics can be molded quickly with consistent results.
Our Experience: Designing Custom Multi-Use Plastic Tiki Mugs
When we first explored multi-use plastic manufacturing, we aimed to replicate the look and feel of a ceramic Tiki mug — bold, thick-walled, and rich in surface detail. At the time, most reusable plastic drinkware on the market seemed limited to simple shapes — plastic wine goblets, margarita glasses, or pint cups.
We were skeptical. Could plastic really replicate the intricacy of a hand-sculpted ceramic piece?
Surprisingly, yes.
Through careful design and collaboration with experienced production partners, we developed a multi-use plastic Tiki mug that captured the same tactile richness and durability as its ceramic counterpart. The result was a product that was:
Visually impressive
Practical in a high-volume setting
Affordable for both large and small runs
Since then, we've continued to produce custom plastic cocktail serves for clients across the globe — from stylised goblets to sculptural mugs, always pushing beyond the standard barware options.
What Plastics Are Used in Multi-Use Drinkware?
Several food-safe materials are commonly used in producing reusable plastic drinkware:
Polypropylene (PP) – Lightweight, durable, dishwasher-safe
High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) – Strong and chemical-resistant
Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE) – Flexible, impact-resistant
Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) – Clear and rigid, ideal for branding
These plastics can be coloured or left translucent, and surface decoration or branding (such as logos or full-colour prints) can easily be added.
Manufacturing Methods: Injection Moulding vs. Thermoforming
Two main processes are used to manufacture multi-use plastic cups:
1. Injection Moulding
Plastic pellets are melted and injected into a mold
Allows for precise, complex shapes
Ideal for detailed, custom barware designs
2. Thermoforming
A plastic sheet is heated and formed over a mold using vacuum pressure
Best for simpler shapes and thinner walls
Often used for lightweight reusable tumblers
Tooling is typically made from metal to withstand high production volumes and maintain accuracy. From initial sampling to full production, the process generally takes about 12 weeks.
Interested in Producing a Custom Cocktail Serve?
If you're considering a custom multi-use plastic cocktail serve — whether a Tiki mug, unique cup, or theatrical glass alternative — we’d love to help you bring it to life. With the right design approach and manufacturing partners, your ideas can be both stunning and practical.
Get in touch to discuss your concept, and let’s explore what’s possible.