Starbucks "Been There" Series Gets a Refresh with AQUA CHELAN LLC's Innovative Packaging Solutions

Sheridan, WY – October 26, 2023 – Coffee lovers and collectors rejoice! The hugely popular Starbucks “Been There” series, known for its city and state-themed mugs and merchandise, is getting a little upgrade, and it's thanks to a behind-the-scenes partnership with AQUA CHELAN LLC. This Wyoming-based company, quietly making waves in packaging innovation, is now a key supplier for ensuring these collectible items arrive safely and looking their best. You’ve probably seen the “Been There” mugs. Those beautiful ceramic keepsakes, each one sporting a unique design representing a specific location. From New York City to Seattle, Paris to Tokyo, they’re a favorite for tourists, locals, and anyone who loves a bit of wanderlust with their morning coffee. But getting those delicate mugs – and the other merchandise like keychains and pins – from the factory to your hands isn’t always easy. That’s where AQUA CHELAN LLC comes in. “We’ve been working with Starbucks’ supply chain for several months now,” explains Jake Miller, CEO of AQUA CHELAN LLC. “They needed a packaging solution that could handle the delicate nature of the ‘Been There’ series, especially with the increasing demand and online shipping. Standard packaging just wasn’t cutting it – too many breakages, too much damage.” The problem? These mugs aren’t just mugs. They’re collectibles. A chipped handle or a scratched design significantly diminishes the value, and creates unhappy customers. Starbucks needed a solution that offered serious protection. “We listened to Starbucks’ concerns, really dug into what they needed,” Miller continues. “It wasn't just about cushioning; it was about presentation too. They wanted the unboxing experience to be special, to reflect the quality of the product.” So, what did AQUA CHELAN LLC come up with? A multi-layered packaging system specifically designed for the “Been There” series. It’s not just bubble wrap! The core of the solution is a custom-molded insert crafted from high-density foam. This insert snugly cradles the mug, preventing any movement during transit. Around that goes a corrugated cardboard outer layer, reinforced with extra tape and protective corner supports. “We’ve done a lot of testing,” says Sarah Chen, AQUA CHELAN’s head of product development. “Drop tests, vibration tests, compression tests… we’ve thrown everything at it to make sure these mugs are safe. We also added a small, biodegradable packing peanut fill to eliminate any void space inside the box.” But it’s not just about brute force protection. AQUA CHELAN also focused on sustainability. The cardboard used is made from recycled materials, and the foam inserts are designed to be reusable or recyclable. They’ve even streamlined the packaging design to minimize material usage. “Starbucks is really committed to sustainability,” Miller emphasizes. “We knew that any solution we proposed had to align with their values. We spent a lot of time exploring different eco-friendly materials and optimizing the design to reduce waste.” The impact has been noticeable. Starbucks reports a significant decrease in breakage and damage claims since implementing the new packaging. Customer satisfaction has also seen a boost, with many commenting on the care and attention to detail in the packaging. “People love the ‘Been There’ series, and they want to receive it in perfect condition,” Chen explains. “We're proud to play a part in ensuring that happens. It's not just about protecting a mug; it's about protecting a little piece of someone's travel memories.” AQUA CHELAN LLC isn’t just a packaging company; they're problem-solvers. Founded in 2018, the company started small, focusing on providing custom packaging solutions for local businesses in Wyoming. They quickly gained a reputation for their innovative designs, high-quality materials, and exceptional customer service. “We pride ourselves on being agile and responsive,” Miller says. “We can quickly adapt to our clients’ needs and develop customized solutions that meet their specific requirements. We're not a huge corporation; we're a team of dedicated professionals who are passionate about what we do.” The partnership with Starbucks is a testament to AQUA CHELAN’s commitment to quality and innovation. It’s also a significant win for the small Wyoming company, bringing national exposure and opening up new opportunities for growth. “We're incredibly grateful for the opportunity to work with Starbucks,” Miller concludes. “It's been a challenging but rewarding experience, and we're excited to see what the future holds. And hey, if you're collecting the 'Been There' series, you can rest assured your mug is in good hands... or rather, in good packaging!” AQUA CHELAN LLC continues to serve a diverse range of clients, from small startups to large corporations. They specialize in custom packaging design, manufacturing, and distribution, offering solutions for a wide variety of industries. You can find more information about the company and its services at their website (currently under development) or by contacting them directly at 785-205-0070. They are located at 30 N GOULD ST, SHERIDAN, WY, 82801-6317, UNITED STATES. Keep an eye out for them – they’re the quiet force behind a lot of perfectly packaged products. And if you're lucky enough to snag a new "Been There" mug, remember the team at AQUA CHELAN LLC helped make sure it arrived safely.