Coffee giant Starbucks has been forced to issue a public apology after the launch of its highly anticipated 'Bearista' holiday cups descended into chaos, leaving countless customers empty-handed and disappointed.
What Happened with the Bearista Cups?
The new 20-ounce glass cups, shaped like bears and priced at $29.95, were meant to be a festive treat for customers. However, on their launch day, Thursday, November 6, 2025, many stores reported selling out within minutes of opening.
Frustrated customers took to social media to complain, with numerous reports suggesting that Starbucks employees had purchased the coveted merchandise before the stores had even opened their doors to the public.
Starbucks Responds to the Backlash
In response to the widespread disappointment, Starbucks acknowledged the situation. The company stated that the excitement for the Bearista merchandise had "exceeded even our biggest expectations".
It officially apologised for the frustration caused by the rapid sell-out. The cups have become a viral sensation, creating a frenzy that the coffee chain admits it did not fully anticipate.
The Aftermath and Resale Market
The immediate consequence of the shortage has been a booming resale market. The sought-after Bearista cups are now appearing on online marketplaces like eBay, where resellers are capitalising on the high demand.
Prices on these platforms have skyrocketed, with the cups being listed for amounts ranging from $150 to an astonishing $500.
Alongside the problematic bear cups, Starbucks also launched a Hello Kitty collection and its traditional red holiday cups. The company's popular Red Cup Day is still scheduled for November 13.
