Cup branding is one of the most powerful forms of hospitality marketing there is: every guest walking down the street with your cup in hand is a walking advertisement. But what does it actually cost to brand cups, and what should you know before ordering? This guide answers the questions hospitality operators ask us most, from per-unit pricing to delivery time.
For an introduction to cup branding itself, see our earlier cup branding guide. This article goes deeper into pricing, ordering options, and frequently asked questions.
What does custom cup printing cost?
At Natudine, cup branding starts at 500 units, with an entry price from €0.15 per unit. As with our other branded products, higher volumes bring lower per-unit pricing, with discounts scaling automatically up to a maximum at 25,000 units per order.
Two choices shape the final price:
- Half-wrap vs. full-wrap sleeve — a half-wrap sleeve covers roughly the mid-band of the cup, a cost-effective option for smaller logos. A full-wrap sleeve covers the cup's full height for maximum brand visibility — the choice of most beach clubs and event venues focused on brand recognition.
- Standard vs. Bio coating — Standard cups use a thin PE plastic layer to stay leak-proof. Bio cups replace this with a water-based coating, making them fully compostable and recyclable, marked with a PAP21 code on the base. For venues that lead with sustainability as part of their brand, Bio is the natural choice.
Ordering step by step
- Upload your logo in the online configurator — drag to see a live price estimate.
- Choose sleeve type and coating (half-wrap or full-wrap, Standard or Bio).
- Receive a free 3D proof within 24 hours to check colors, logo placement, and sizing.
- Approve it — delivery typically follows within 5-7 business days, produced and shipped from the Netherlands.
How many cups do you need?
That depends on your number of guests and on peak moments such as festivals and events, when consumption ramps up quickly. Because the per-unit price drops at higher volumes, ordering a full season's supply at once is often more cost-effective than several smaller orders.
Frequently asked questions
What's the minimum order for custom printed cups? The minimum order is 500 units, with pricing that automatically decreases up to a maximum of 25,000 units.
What's the difference between half-wrap and full-wrap sleeves? A half-wrap sleeve covers the cup's mid-band — cost-effective for smaller logos. A full-wrap sleeve covers the full height for maximum visibility.
What's the difference between Standard and Bio coating? Standard uses a thin PE plastic layer. Bio uses a water-based coating and is fully compostable and recyclable, identifiable by the PAP21 code.
How long does delivery take? Typically 5-7 business days after approving the digital proof.
Can I see a proof before printing? Yes — every order includes a free 3D digital proof before production starts.
Pairing cups with other branded tableware
Many hospitality venues combine branded cups with custom printed coasters or branded napkins for a consistent brand experience on the table and in hand. Because cups are the most visible item — they literally leave the venue with the guest — this is often the first branded investment hospitality operators make.
Ready to order? Upload your logo in the cup branding configurator and get a free 3D proof within 24 hours.