Room For All - S2 E13 - Live at the 2025 Social Enterprise Festival - Patrick Manley - Cercle
- Author
- Andrea Comastri and Saraya O'Connell
- Published
- Mon 01 Sep 2025
- Episode Link
- None
Innovative Solutions for Reuse: Patrick Manley on the Mission of Cercle
In this episode of Room for All, co-founder and CEO of Cercle, Patrick Manley, discusses the organization's efforts to reduce single-use food and drink packaging through a comprehensive reuse network. Patrick explains how Cercle provides fully managed services for reusable packaging, including collection and washing, while also emphasizing the social impact by employing marginalized communities. He touches on the challenges and potential growth areas for Cercle, such as integrating with high-density places like workplaces and airports. The discussion highlights the importance of trust and simplicity in promoting reusable solutions over traditional recycling methods.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
01:54 Overview of Cercle's Mission
02:25 How Cercle Operates
03:15 Trust-Based System and QR Code Innovation
05:39 Inspiration Behind Cercle
06:20 Financial Model and Scaling Challenges
09:59 Future Goals and Expansion Plans
14:46 Social Impact and Employment Opportunities
16:54 Conclusion and Contact Information
Cercle is designed to make it easier for people to use reusable cups at work. Cercle provides office buildings and nearby cafes with a simple circular economy solution: Offering takeaway customers free reusable cups to enjoy their coffee in that can then be returned to Drop Pods in their workspace. This unique end-to-end service is available to building & workspace managers who are looking to reduce their single use waste. All workspace residents have to do is ask for a Cercle cup when they order their coffee.
We believe true sustainability goes beyond just helping the planet. It’s about building stronger, more resilient communities. That’s why we're thrilled to introduce Cercle Social, our dedicated reusable washing service powered by members of our community in need of meaningful work.
Every time you choose reuse with Cercle, you're doing more than just reducing waste. You're directly contributing to fostering local jobs and strengthening our community.
From our operations to our partnerships, we're committed to creating opportunities that support local livelihoods for people exiting the prison system or escaping domestic violence.
http://www.cercle.com.au/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/cercle-cups/posts/?feedView=all
