Nationwide retailers Marks and Spencer have received outraged backlash from shoppers in recent days after announcing they are doing away with traditional cups and saucers, in place of standard mugs in their cafes. Many have taken to Twitter to share their dismay as M&S make a big break from tradition. The decision comes amid huge energy price increases as the cost of cleaning just one mug is less than that of a cup and a saucer.
This move also reflects a shifting of traditional values which have seen many homes across the UK ditch cups and saucers for regular mugs for a cuppa. However, the change has not been welcomed across the board with many taking to Twitter to show their anger at the high street retailer's break from tradition.
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One Twitter user said: "It's just not the same. M&S used to have the highest of standards but not anymore."
"I still prefer a teapot and small milk jug with a cup and saucer."
According to the retailer, there will not be a complete absence of tradition as they will still be serving tea in teapots, you will just have to make do pouring this into a mug instead.
Another Twitter user had concerns for the hygiene standards as he said: "Why has the cafe at the Marble Arch store stopped providing a saucer with teacups as there is nowhere now to rest one’s teaspoon?- not at all hygienic!"
This was met with a reply from M&S who have said that this is a change will affect all stores up and down the country as they ditch cups and saucers for mugs.
A spokesperson on the offician Marks and Spencer Twitter explained the change, writing: "As a business M&S has decided to replace cups and saucers with mugs, as in trials which we've conducted, it's been found that the removal of saucers makes things much easier in dishwashing, clearing tables, and when carrying trays."
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