Okapi Central Ohio Reusable Cup Network

The Okapi  reuse program  is a simple, borrow-based system that lets you grab a drink in a high-quality stainless reusable cup and drop it off at any participating shop right here in town. Coffee shops take care of the cups, you save money, and Worthington gets a whole lot greener!

The Central Ohio Reuse Coalition (CORC)  in partnership with Okapi Reusables launched the central Ohio Okapi network in 2024. The SWACO Green Team grant supported expanding the central Ohio Okapi network by 5 shops in Worthington and two outside the city. As of November 2025, the overall central Ohio Okapi network as 17 participating coffee shops. Okapi Reusables, headquartered in Portland OR, has over 90 shops in their nationwide network, mostly on the West coast, and now in Central Ohio! Cups can be borrowed or returned at any shop in the network!
How it Works

How Does it Work: Step by Step

  • Download App

    Download the FREE Okapi App - it’s just $10 to join which gives you the ability to borrow up to 2 cups at any time.

  • Borrow

    Borrow a cup by tapping “borrow” on the app and scanning the QR code at the counter as you order.

  • ENJOY!

    Enjoy your drink!

  • Return

    Return

    Return your cups to any cafe in the network within 2 weeks. Use the app to scan QR code on the return bin. (The lost cup fee is $15.)

Let’s hear from our Coffee Influencers

breakfastwithnick
ohiocoffeeblog
worthingtonfarmersmarket

What locations are part of the Okapi Network?

Barrel & Bloom - Linworth

Cafe Graciela at the Worthington Farmers Market

Kitties Cakes - Worthington

Kitties Cakes - Bexley

Kitties Cakes - German Village

Ramble Coffee

Sunny Sips camper - at the Worthington Farmers Market

Cafe Owners: Offer your drinks in durable, beautiful cups.

Stand out. Reduce waste.

Funds are  available to launch Okapi in Worthington coffee shops at no cost to the shop!

  • Initial investment

    While there is an initial investment in high-quality Okapi cups, these cups are a durable asset that rapidly pays for itself by replacing the constant, wasteful expense of single-use packaging.

  • The Financial Shift:

    Implementing a reusable cup program can lead to average annual savings of $2,500–$4,000 per coffee shop by achieving a significant reduction in the continuous, recurring purchase of disposable cups, lids, and sleeves.

  • Financial Advantage:

    The cost of disposable packaging (cup, lid, sleeve) is a constant operational expense that generates zero return. By switching to a reusable network model where customers borrow and return, this expensive recurring cost is significantly reduced for every drink served in an Okapi cup.

  • Invest in Assets, Not Trash:

    Your investment in Okapi cups is an investment in durable, high-quality inventory, ensuring you stop paying for single-use throwaways and start accumulating value.

The implementation of the Okapi Reusable Network in Central Ohio is part of The Worthington Reuses project, and is funded in part by a SWACO Community Waste Reduction Grant, supporting initiatives that reduce waste and promote sustainable solutions in our community.

More About Okapi

Want to get more involved with the Partnership Green Team?

Contact us at partnershipgreenteam@gmail.com