Global food packaging manufacturer Go-Pak Group has unveiled its 2026 festive cup range, designed to help hospitality and coffee operators deliver a premium seasonal experience without investing in bespoke printing or separate cup sleeves.
Inspired by traditional Christmas jumpers, the embossed cups feature a cable-knit design and are supplied in a mixed sleeve of pine green, winterberry red and woollen white. The tactile finish provides a comfortable grip, while the double-wall construction helps retain heat and keeps the cup comfortable to hold without an additional clutch sleeve.
Research from YouGov indicates that 36% of coffee drinkers are more likely to purchase hot drinks during the festive season, with more than half willing to pay between £3 and £5 per drink.
As limited-edition menus and distinctive designs become an established part of the seasonal coffee experience, festive cups can help operators turn an everyday purchase into a small moment of indulgence, nostalgia and togetherness.
Made from food-grade paperboard with a PE lining, the cups can be recycled at dedicated facilities where they are not heavily contaminated with food or drink.
The range was developed by Go-Pak’s in-house new product development team and brought to life at the company’s own manufacturing facilities. Available in 8oz, 10oz, 12oz and 16oz sizes, it provides a versatile solution for serving everything from espresso-based drinks and festive lattes to indulgent hot chocolates.
The cable-knit embossing creates a premium seasonal finish without the cost associated with bespoke printing, while the mixed colourways give operators built-in variety without the complexity of ordering, storing and managing several separate designs.
The launch comes as hospitality businesses continue to face rising operating costs, with cafés and restaurants excluded from the Government’s recently announced 15% business rates reduction for pubs.
Bethan Edwards, head of foodservice UK & Ireland, said: “Hospitality operators should not have to choose between carefully controlling costs and creating the festive experience their customers look forward to.
“This range combines insulation, seasonal branding and three distinctive colourways in one ready-made product, removing the need for separate sleeves or investment in bespoke cup designs. It offers operators a simple way to bring Christmas to the counter while keeping their packaging set-up streamlined.”