Frequently asked Questions
Using Cercle
Categories
Cercle Reserve
What happens if cups go missing?
Loss is a key issue for reuse systems and needs to be carefully considered. In some operations, this risk is minimal and cups can be offered on a ‘trust basis’. We offer Cercle Reserve as an optional system you can implement that reduces cup loss by encouraging responsible returns.
When using Reserve, a fee is held on a customers card. You can either use our POS which allows the customer to simply scan and tap, or our free web-based app. Either method is App-free, deposit-free and doesn’t require a customer to sign up.
If a cup or asset is not returned after 5 days (this can be custom set to client needs), the customer is charged the replacement cost so that the venue is covered, and can replace any losses. To find out more, see the Cercle Reserve page.
Is tracking of assets live?
Yes. Tracking data when using Reserve is updated in near real-time so that you can see and display a ‘live’ feed. Washes are tracked when they are scanned as washed/returned in the system, and then key metrics are calculated based on these returns and use. See our impact page for examples on reporting and some of our basic calculators and metrics.
Washing and Care
Can Cercle products be commercially washed?
Yes. All of our assets are designed for commercial washing and tested to over 1,000 uses. With proper care, your reusables should last a long, long time with little to no degradation. As designed.
How does washing work?
You can choose the cleaning model that suits your space and operational needs. All Cercle assets are designed for commercial cleaning.
On-site Cleaning
Cups are washed using existing or supplied dishwashing equipment inside your venue. Cleaners and staff receive full training on collection, washing and returning clean cups to the venue for next use.
Off-site Cleaning
Cercle collects used cups and returns clean cups in one sweep as a swap and go service. This option is available wherever Cercle operates a wash hub. See our washing page for more information.
If you want help deciding which cleaning model fits your space, simply enquire to work with our team of professionals for a recommendation.
What do we do with damaged cups?
All Cercle products are designed to be recyclable at end of life. Leased assets are simply replaced and Cercle can collect damaged cups to ensure they are responsibly recycled through approved facilities.
Implementation
Can we test Cercle before committing?
Sure. Our leasing pathway is perfect to test out a reuse system at low cost and return assets if your priorities change or efforts don’t meet expectations. This is often perfect for pilots, and we provide you with everything you need, including cups, pods, signage, equipment, training and live reporting on a monthly rolling plan.
Just remember that reuse is a long-term behaviour change action, and you can even lock in lease pricing to get discounted monthly rates. Enquire today.
Do we need special equipment to run Cercle?
No, however Cercle blue assets and Drop Pods have been designed and tested to be visually appealing and noticeable to connect users to your system. Many aspects of Cercle are optional such as Cercle Reserve but we find that reuse efforts are often most effective when using these systems together. Most cafés can use their existing dishwashers, or if you need on-site washing upgrades Cercle can supply recommended equipment or advise based on your space.
If you are unsure what is required, simply enquire and one of our professional team will discuss your needs and design a solution with you.
How long does it take to launch Cercle?
Most buildings and cafés can activate Cercle within a few weeks depending on stock, cleaning setup and requirements, and staff training. We can help you with your project planning and marketing plans; and set you up for success. For efforts with large scope, make sure to plan well and give yourself some time.
Events are often time-crunched, and we have made a form that can help you lock in your efforts within days. Simply fill out our events enquiry form.
To find out more, visit our solutions pages or simply enquire to work with one of our team directly.
How many Drop Pods do I need?
There are several key factors to consider when deciding how many drop pods you need. You want to maximise customer convenience and opportunities to return balanced with associated servicing and costs. Factors to consider include foot traffic behaviour, number of venues, service volume, and the size of your building or event. As a guide, most buildings use one Drop Pod per 30–50 cups in circulation. Check out this great guide on collection points placement by the PR3 reuse standards.
If you would like our team to help advise you with your project needs and costs, simply enquire and start the conversation today.
How do you train our staff?
All of our Cercle clients are provided a digital toolkit with training materials, assets and more, which can be accessed at any time when it is convenient for you and your staff. Most staff can learn the system within minutes.
Additionally, teams and cleaners can receive simple, hands-on training or additional refresher training in person, available on request.
Does Cercle support seasonal and/or high-volume peaks?
Yes. This is the beauty of our leasing pathways. Additional cups and Drop Pods can be added either temporarily or permanently depending on your demand. As long as we have your assets in stock, you can enquire and plan for peak periods.
