Costa launch coffee cup with built in contactless card

Contactless payment technology has reached new levels as Costa Coffee launch reuseable cup with a built in chip enabling users to pay for items with their coffee.

The reuseable cup contains a contactless chip hidden in the silicone base which allows users to tap the bottom of their cup on the chip and pin machine. The device can be used everywhere that accepts contactless payments. 

The base is removeable which allows the cup to be washed. 

Image: Costa Coffee

The 'Clever Cups' have been developed using bPay by Barclaycard technology, which will allow users to track their spending and top up their balance online. Users can also block the contactless element if they lose the cup. 

Rob Morgan, the Head of Sales and Partnerships, at Barclays, said: "Today's shoppers are looking for seamless ways to pay. 

"Our wearable chip technology allows almost any accessory to be transformed into a smart payment device, unlocking the benefits of speed and ease in everyday purchases."

It is hoped that the technology will encourage users to remember to bring their reuseable cups instead of throwing their cups away. 

Managing Director of Costa Coffee, Jason Cotta, said: "Contacless technology has become increasingly prominent in our daily lives and through the launch of the new Costa/Barclaycard Clever Cup we hope to appeal to those tech-savvy customers to help facilitate and drive environmentally friendly behaviour. 

"Whilst we are committed to ensuring more takeaway coffee cups are recovered and recycled we also want to incentivise and reward customers who help reduce the number of takeaway cups being wasted. 

"We already offer a 25p discount on hot drinks in all our stores for customers using reusable cups, and hope the innovative Clever Cup will become an additional incentive for increasing the use of reusable cups."

The Clever Cup costs £14.99, and £1 from every sale will go to The Costa Foundation.