Cup Print

About Cup Print

Cup Print was established in Ennis, Ireland, in 2009 by Terry Fox, who leveraged his extensive background in high-speed commercial printing and packaging to address a market inefficiency. Fox, along with his father Hugh Fox, who brought 40 years of experience in commercial print and packaging, identified that the existing industry catered almost exclusively to large chains, leaving independent cafes and smaller businesses unable to order custom-printed cups in low volumes with fast turnarounds. Inspired during the 2008 recession, Terry Fox developed unique, now-patented processes to manufacture short-run custom printed cups, enabling order minimums as low as 1,000 units with an average delivery time of 14-15 days.

The company's business model is centered on an online service platform that simplifies the design and ordering process for a diverse client base, including coffee shops, bakeries, food vendors, and event organizers. This approach disrupted the traditional business model by offering flexibility and making branded cups accessible to smaller enterprises. The company's product line includes a variety of paper cups, such as single and double-wall options, which are available in both recyclable and compostable materials. A key feature is the 3D digital design preview, allowing customers to visualize their branding before production. Revenue is generated directly from the sale and customization of these paper products.

Significant milestones for Cup Print include establishing a European sales office in Germany in 2010 and Terry Fox winning the EY Entrepreneur of the Year in the Emerging Category in 2014. The company expanded its operations by setting up a U.S. plant in South Bend, Indiana, in 2016. In a major strategic move in May 2018, the global food and drink packaging specialist Huhtamäki acquired a 70% stake in Cup Print for 22 million euros, a partnership intended to accelerate Cup Print's growth into new markets while allowing it to maintain its operational agility. The founding management, including Terry Fox as General Manager, retained a 30% share and continues to lead the company.