Starbucks Apologizes Amid Bearista Brawls as Fans Crowd Stores
Starbucks recently faced backlash due to the overwhelming popularity of its new Glass Starbucks Bearista Cold Cup. This 20-ounce cup is designed like a teddy bear, complete with a green knitted beanie. Priced at $29.95, it quickly became the hit of the coffee chain’s 2025 holiday merchandise launch on November 6.
Demand Exceeds Supply
Fans flooded stores hoping to purchase the Bearista cup, only to find limited availability. Some locations reportedly had just one or two cups for sale, leading to disappointment and frustration among eager customers. Reports of brawls over the cups emerged, with a notable incident occurring in Houston.
Starbucks Responds
In response to the chaos, Starbucks issued a public apology. A spokesperson acknowledged that customer demand had far surpassed expectations. They emphasized that extensive efforts were made to stock stores with Bearista cups and other holiday merchandise.
- Starbucks acknowledgment of supply issues
- Statement of excitement exceeding expectations
- Promise of additional merchandise throughout the holiday season
Customer Reactions
Fans expressed their dissatisfaction through social media. One user lamented, “It’s disappointing for a company like Starbucks to create such hype without sufficient stock.” Others shared their experiences of waiting in long lines, only to be told that the cup was sold out.
- Reports of customers camping out for the cups
- Many stores received minimal stock
- Complaints about marketing tactics leading to frustration
Resale Market Surge
The scarcity of the Bearista cup led to a surge in resale prices. Listings on platforms like eBay show the cups selling for between $109 and $275. Fans are frustrated by the inflated prices, with some turning to alternative options available online.
Alternatives for Fans
While the Bearista cup remains elusive for many, Starbucks customers can still enjoy holiday beverages. Some popular options include:
- Peppermint Mocha
- Caramel Brulée Latte
- Iced Sugar Cookie Latte
- Iced Gingerbread Chai
This holiday season, fans hope Starbucks addresses the supply issues to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to purchase the much-desired Bearista cup.
