The Rise of the Bearista Cold Cup
A limited-edition glass cup recently launched by Starbucks in the U.S. has gained significant popularity. Following shortages at local stores, physical altercations even broke out among consumers rushing to purchase the item.
According to a report, Starbucks U.S. released the new limited-edition ‘Bearista Cold Cup’ on the 5th ahead of the year-end season. The cup features a green-hatted bear holding a Starbucks logo-emblazoned cup, designed with a straw hole on top. It was priced at US$29.95 (approximately 44,000 Korean won).
On the day of its release, long lines formed outside Starbucks stores in various regions as crowds gathered to buy the cup. “Fights erupted over limited stock, and many coffee enthusiasts left empty-handed,” the report said.
Josué Martinez, 31 years old, a real estate photographer working in Seattle, said, “I arrived at the Starbucks store at 5 a.m. I was lucky enough to buy this cup.” He added, “Since I really love coffee, being able to own this cute bear-themed cup feels very special.”
Sydney Thomas, 16 years old, who lives in Los Angeles (LA), said, “I woke up at 3 a.m. and headed to Starbucks with my mom. I really wanted this cup, so I thought, ‘I’ll do whatever it takes to get it.’”
However, when Thomas arrived at a store around 5 a.m., the line was already long. He and his mother searched for another store with fewer people, visiting eight locations before finally finding the cup at a Starbucks inside a supermarket. Thomas, clutching the cup, expressed joy: “It’s the cutest cup I’ve ever seen. I’ll use it every day.”
Jerianna Ricciardi, a TV host from North Caldwell, New Jersey, visited a local Starbucks with her sister at 4:30 a.m. Two bear-shaped cups were displayed, but three people were already waiting ahead of her. As Ricciardi tried to ask about remaining stock, she witnessed a physical fight between customers. “A grown man was fighting with young girls,” she said. “I know it’s a collectible, but it’s not a diamond.”
The report stated, “Due to limited supply, a secondary market has formed,” adding that the bear-shaped cups are being sold for hundreds of dollars on secondhand platforms like eBay.
As complaints poured in from customers who failed to obtain the cup, Starbucks issued an apology. A Starbucks spokesperson said, “Demand far exceeded our expectations. We understand many customers were looking forward to the cup. We apologize for the disappointment.” The company avoided mentioning restocks, stating only, “We plan to release more exciting products during this holiday season.”
Consumer Reactions and Market Response
The Bearista Cold Cup has sparked a wave of excitement and frustration among consumers. Many fans of the brand have shared their experiences online, detailing how they went to great lengths to secure one of the limited items. Some have even resorted to waking up early, traveling to multiple locations, or waiting in long lines just to get their hands on the cup.
For some, the cup is more than just a drink container—it represents a unique piece of Starbucks merchandise that can be cherished or collected. For others, it’s a symbol of exclusivity and status, especially given the high prices it commands on the secondary market.
The incident has also raised questions about the company’s approach to limited-edition products. While such releases often generate buzz and drive sales, they can also lead to negative customer experiences if demand outstrips supply.
The Impact on Starbucks
The situation highlights the challenges that companies face when launching highly anticipated products. While Starbucks may have intended to create a sense of urgency and excitement, the outcome has been mixed. On one hand, the cup has become a talking point and has generated significant media attention. On the other hand, the shortage and subsequent conflicts have damaged the brand’s reputation among some customers.
In response, Starbucks has taken steps to address the issue. The company has apologized for the inconvenience caused and has reassured customers that more products will be released during the holiday season. However, the lack of information about restocks has left many consumers uncertain about future availability.
Looking Ahead
As the holiday season approaches, it remains to be seen how Starbucks will handle the demand for the Bearista Cold Cup. Will the company increase production to meet the needs of its customers, or will it continue with its current strategy of limited releases? Only time will tell.
For now, the cup continues to be a hot topic among coffee lovers and collectors alike. Whether it’s seen as a valuable collectible or a simple drinking vessel, one thing is clear: the Bearista Cold Cup has made a lasting impression on the Starbucks community.