Starbucks Apologizes Over Viral ‘Bearista’ Cup Frenzy

Starbucks experienced a surge of customer disappointment after its 20-ounce bear-shaped iced coffee glasses, released to celebrate the Christmas season, sold out quickly. On November 6, the cups were available in stores but sold out almost immediately, prompting the company to issue a public apology. Starbucks clarified that the demand surpassed their expectations, stating, “The excitement for our merchandise exceeded even our biggest expectations.” They emphasized that they had shipped more Bearista cups than any other item but still faced rapid sell-outs.

Many customers expressed frustration on social media, alleging that various locations received only one or two items and claiming that some employees purchased them before the stores opened. Complaints included stories of individuals camping overnight only to find no stock available by the time the stores opened. The Bearista cups feature a clear bear-shaped design with a straw that resembles a green beanie when inserted.

Starbucks’s apology and explanations come amidst a significant backlash from loyal fans frustrated by the limited availability of popular merchandise.

• Why it matters: The incident highlights the challenges businesses face in managing product demand, particularly during seasonal promotions, underscoring the importance of inventory planning in retail.
• The latest: Starbucks stated that they will work to improve stock availability for future product launches to better meet customer demand.