Holiday Rush Ready: Café Packaging Checklist

 Introduction

At Packaging Wise, we know the holiday season brings a surge of customers, bigger orders, and higher expectations. From festive drinks to takeaway treats, cafés must prepare packaging that is reliable, eco-friendly, and fast to serve.

This holiday-ready checklist helps ensure your café is fully stocked and ready to deliver smooth, stress-free service during the busiest weeks of the year.

 

1) Hot Drinks: Cups, Lids & Sleeves

Must-Haves

• Coffee Cups (8oz, 12oz, 16oz)
• Sip Lids & Lockable Lids
• Cup Accessories

Why They Matter

Holiday customers order more lattes, mochas, and festive blends. Running out of cups or lids slows service and hurts sales.

 

2) Cold & Seasonal Drinks

Even in winter, iced drinks remain popular — especially flavoured cold brews, bubble teas, or signature iced holiday drinks.

Stock up on:

• Cold Drink Cups
• Smoothie Cups
• Paper Straws

These pair perfectly with holiday branding and clear drink presentation.

 

3) Food Packaging for Festive Treats

For pastries, cookies & bakes:

• Paper Bags
• Napkins

For hot meals & winter specials:

• Food Boxes
• Food Trays
• Bagasse Packaging

For sides & desserts:

• Ice Cream Bowls & Dessert Cups

Whether you serve mince pies, hot sandwiches, or festive puddings, reliable packaging ensures both presentation and durability.

 

4) Catering & High-Volume Orders

Holiday events increase demand for bulk serving trays and durable packaging.

Recommended items:

• Heavy-duty trays from the Food Tray Collection
• Leak-resistant bowls
• Strong Paper Bags for multi-item orders

Ensure your café can handle large office orders, gatherings, and seasonal catering requests.

 

5) Eco-Friendly Holiday Essentials

Customers expect sustainable options — even more during the holidays.

Top eco picks:

• Bagasse Bowls & Boxes
• Compostable Napkins
• Paper Straws

Holiday packaging that looks good and aligns with eco values strengthens your brand image.

 

Conclusion

A well-prepared packaging setup is the foundation of a smooth holiday rush. By planning ahead and stocking key essentials, your café can serve more customers with confidence, speed, and festive flair.

 

Why Choose Packaging Wise?

At Packaging Wise, we provide reliable, eco-friendly packaging trusted by UK cafés during the holiday rush. With next-day delivery, strong UK stock, and certified materials, we help you stay ready for the busiest season of the year.

Need help building your holiday packaging bundle? Contact Us — our team will recommend exactly what you need for peak December demand.