Coffee cup innovator brewing a reusable revolution with Innovate UK support
Langham Product, a Bath-based innovator, is transforming coffee retail with its innovative approach to sustainable design. Through its pioneering returnable and reusable coffee cups, developed in partnership with Circular and Co in Cornwall, the company has not only prevented thousands of disposable cups from ending up in landfill, but is also projected to achieve a remarkable 78% increase in sales over the next year. With tailored business growth support from Innovate UK, Langham Product is also boosting the UK circular economy, showcasing how innovation can drive growth and benefit society.
Each year, billions of disposable coffee cups contribute to environmental waste and pollution. Langham Product is addressing this pressing issue with inventive solutions that prioritise sustainability and usability. The company’s flagship product is a returnable coffee cup designed with heat-diffusing ribs for comfort and tags or microchips for traceability, encouraging a circular economy through returns and reuse.
Simon Langham, Founder of Langham Product, says: “After just two uses, these cups have the same carbon output as a paper cup and after six uses, they become carbon neutral. Every use significantly reduces environmental impact compared to disposables.”
Langham Product also created the Circular Cup, the world’s first reusable coffee cup made from used recycled paper cups. The design was recognised as Which? Best Buy Travel Coffee Cup from 2018-2022 and The Independent’s Best Reusable Cup from 2019 – 2023.
Simon explains: “One of the frustrations I’d noticed with both disposable and reusable cups is that you have to drink through a tiny hole in the lid, so you don’t experience the aroma of the coffee. So, I designed a lid that allows you to drink from anywhere on the rim, this gives the consumer the full coffee experience, much like a China cup.”
Bespoke strategic support
Langham Product’s journey with Innovate UK Business Growth began in February 2023, when Simon connected with Innovation and Growth Specialist, Gillian Montanaro. This partnership proved crucial in developing a comprehensive action plan focused on intellectual property (IP) management, business strategy and funding opportunities.
“Having Gillian and the team to guide me on technical aspects and provide that sounding board and moral support has been hugely beneficial,” Simon reflects.
Strategic IP management and business planning
A key element of Innovate UK Business Growth’s support was optimising Langham Product’s intellectual property management through the IP Advance Scheme. Innovation and Growth Specialist, Kate Butler, who is experienced in IP protection was introduced to deliver an IP Audit, helping Simon to identify, structure and manage his IP portfolio.
“I’ve generated a lot of IP over the years and it’s quite difficult to keep track of what I’ve got, when it’s going to expire and so on,” Simon explains. “Kate’s expertise was invaluable—she organised everything in a structured way and provided advice on managing challenges from competitors copying products.”
Additionally, Innovation and Growth Specialist, Jeremy Davies, worked with Simon to establish clear objectives and track progress effectively.
Simon notes: “My business has grown without me really planning too much—it just kind of happened. Jeremy helped me think more clearly about direction, setting real, active strategic objectives that guide daily operations.”
This strategic clarity has enabled Langham Product to stay focused on its sustainability mission while exploring new growth opportunities.
Scaling impact with sustainable innovations
With Innovate UK’s support, Langham Product has significantly expanded its sustainable products. Langham Product’s sustainable coffee cups are now available at 300 National Trust sites, significantly reducing waste and promoting environmental responsibility. Langham Product was also a key part of the roll-out of the Deposit Return Scheme at Blenheim Palace. These strategic partnerships underscore the company’s dedication to driving sustainability in high-profile locations in the UK.
Looking forward, Langham Product anticipates a 78% increase in sales over the next 12 months, with an additional 33% growth projected for the following year. The company is also developing new products with partners like GRIND coffee and is in discussions to implement the Deposit Return Scheme at high-traffic locations, such as Heathrow Terminal 5.
Langham Products’ achievements demonstrate the positive impact of Innovate UK’s tailored innovation and growth support. By prioritising sustainability and innovation, the company is experiencing substantial growth while also supporting the UK’s green economy.
Having Gillian [Innovation and Growth Specialist] and the team to guide me on technical aspects and provide that sounding board and moral support has been hugely beneficial.
– Simon Langham, Founder of Langham Product