150m blue roll is usually better value than 70m. At ~80m longer (≈2.14× the length), it reduces changeovers and lowers cost per metre, making it ideal for busy kitchens. 70m rolls cost less upfront and suit lighter-use or secondary catering stations.
Shop Blue Roll at Stephensons.
Why blue roll matters in hospitality
Blue roll is a staple product in catering and hospitality, used for wiping down surfaces, cleaning up spills, and maintaining hygiene across kitchens, bars, and prep areas. With rising costs affecting operators, it’s more important than ever to choose the right length roll for your budget and usage.
What’s the difference between 150m and 70m?
The difference is length, not size. A 150m roll gives ~80m more paper, saving money long term. 70m rolls are cheaper per roll but need replacing more often.
Purchasing a 70-metre blue roll might seem like the obvious choice as the upfront cost is less, so when you’re trying to keep your weekly orders within budget, smaller price tages are going to be more appealing.
However, whilst this might be beneficial for some businesses, there is a chance this could mean you’re spending more monthly and annually on blue roll.
Why? Quite simply, although a case of 150-metre blue roll might seem more expensive at first, you’re getting an extra 80 metres out of it per roll. This centrefeed blue roll will last longer and reduce your need to replenish stock each week as a result. Ultimately, this means you will make savings each month/year.
Quick overview
- 150m blue rolls give around 80m extra paper compared to 70m—that’s more than double the length.
- Despite higher upfront cost, cost per metre is lower, meaning better long-term value.
- 70m blue rolls appeal when you want to keep weekly order lower or only need rolls for lighter use.
- Physically, rolls are often similar in size, so storage savings are minimal—the true difference is value and frequency of changovers.
Cost comparison
Even though a 70m case is cheaper, 150m rolls give lower cost per metre and last longer.
Calculation (based on case prices):
- 150m case (6 rolls at £9.99): £9.99 ÷ 6 = £1.67 per roll → £1.67 ÷ 150m = 1.11p per metre
- 70m case (6 rolls at £5.99): £5.99 ÷ 6 = £1.00 per roll → £1.00 ÷ 70m = 1.43p per metre
That makes the 70m roll ~29% more expensive per metre than the 150m option, even though the case price is lower.
Quick comparison table
| Feature | 150m Blue Roll | 70m Blue Roll |
| Length | 150m (-80m longer, =2.14x) | 70m baseline |
| Cost per metre | 1.11p | 1.43p |
| Changeovers | Fewer | U |
| Upfront case cost | £9.99 (6 rolls) | £5.99 (6 rolls) |
| Best for | Busy kitchens, schools, NHS, production | Light-use sites, cafes, food vans |
How much blue roll do caterers use?
Usage depends on service style, hours, and cleaning schedules. Rough averages:
- Small bar/café: 4-6 rills per week
- Medium restaurant: 8-12 rolls per week
- Large bar/restaurant: 15-25+ per week
For example, a medium bar may use:
- 1-2 rolls daily in the kitchen
- 1 roll daily in the bar
- 1-2 rolls weekly in bathrooms
That equals 8-12 rolls per week, showing how much longer 150m blue roll stretches compared to 70m.
Operational benefits
150m rolls save staff time and reduce reordering. 70m rolls are best for low-use or secondary stations.
- Fewer interuptions—less downtime changing rolls
- Simpler stock planning—order less often
- Consistent quality—Stephensons’ blue roll is CHSA-certified, ensuring absorbency, durability when wet, and food-safe performance
Learn more about CHSA standards.
Which blue roll should you choose?
Choose 150m if:
- You run a high-volume kitchen
- You want lower cost per metre
- You prefer fewer roll changes
Choose 70m if:
- You only need rolls occasional, light use
- You want the lowest upfront case cost
- You’re stocking a food van, café, or small bar
FAQs
Is 150m always better value?
Yes, usually per metre it’s cheaper and lasts longer. But check pricing to confirm.
Does 70m save space?
Not significantly—roll dimensions are often similar. The key difference is length and replacement frequency.
Do both fit standard dispensers?
Yes, generally both fit centrefeed dispensers (always check core size).
Are Stephensons’ rolls CHSA accredited?
Yes—ensuring consistent length, absorbency, and durability.
