Why Customers Notice the Little Things (Like Compostable Straws)
Why Customers Notice the Little Things (Like Compostable Straws)
When you’re running a busy café, bar or takeaway spot, you’ve already got a hundred things to think about — stock, staff, orders, reviews, margins. So when someone mentions compostable straws, it might sound like a small detail. But here’s the truth: in hospitality, the small things matter more than you think.
Customers Pay Attention — Especially Gen Z and Millennials
More than ever, customers are hyper-aware of what businesses stand for. The growing eco-conscious crowd notices whether you use paper straws, or compostable ones — and they’ll judge you for it. A 2023 study showed that 75% of Aussies aged 18–35 actively support venues that use paper alternative straws. It’s not just about doing the right thing; it’s about being seen doing the right thing.
A paper alternative straw tells your customers:
- “We care about waste.”
- “We’ve thought this through.”
- “You’re in good hands.”
And that trust? That translates into repeat visits, positive reviews, and loyalty.
Details Create an Experience
You could have a beautifully designed space, top-notch coffee, and great staff — but if a customer gets a soggy paper straw that falls apart mid-drink, that becomes the memory of the visit. People don’t just remember the big-ticket items; they remember how you made them feel. A strong, home-compostable straw that doesn’t collapse after two sips? That feels good.
In other words, you don’t need to overhaul your business to impress customers. You just need to give a damn, and show it in the details.
Eco Swaps = Easy Wins
Switching to certified home-compostable straws is one of the simplest sustainability swaps a venue can make. No plumbing upgrades. No expensive consultants. Just a better choice, straight out of the box.
At PlanetPak, we make sure:
- Our straws are fully home compostable, not just “biodegradable.”
- They meet Australian regulations (so you don’t risk fines).
- They actually hold up in drinks — hot, cold, thick, or fizzy.
So you can feel confident that your customers will notice for the right reasons.
Your Brand Is Built on Every Sip
In the age of TikTok and Google Reviews, everything is content, and everything is feedback. A customer takes a photo of their smoothie, and your Planet Straw is in the frame. That tiny detail becomes a statement about your brand.
Sustainability isn’t a trend, it’s an expectation. And customers can spot the difference between greenwashing and genuine effort. The good news? When you get the little things right, they’ll love you for it.
