The latest limited-edition Starbucks cup gained viral attention for its bear-y adorable shape — and its equally small shipment.
“Who’s getting a bearista cup on 11/6 lmk,” a Tuesday, November 4, post on the brand’s Instagram read, showcasing a translucent, bear-shaped cup.
The 20-ounce glass container is shaped like a teddy bear wearing a green company-branded beanie while holding a plastic Starbucks cup. A green-and-white straw sticks out of the bear’s cap.
After the coffee company debuted the new cup, fans were instantly excited to get their hands on one.
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“If I don’t get one of these I’ll cry,” Bachelor alum Raven Gates wrote in the comments section.
Influencer Elyse Myers added, “Oh my god I LOVE THIS.”
Keep scrolling to learn more about the Starbucks’ “Bearistas” and the viral drama:
When Were the Starbucks Bear Cups Released?
The bear cups went on sale beginning Thursday, November 6, though very few excited fans were actually able to purchase one.
“Petition for a re-release of the bear cup,” one fan commented on the brand’s follow-up post for the Bearista, with another social media user adding, “I think I have a better chance at winning the lottery, then I do obtaining this cute bear cup.”
Other Instagram users pointed out that their local Starbucks shops only received one or two Bearistas in total.
“Why do we hype these up then give stores only 1 or 2 to sell?” a third Instagram fan lamented. “Our store literally received 1 bear cup.”
A fourth social media user claimed they had a similar experience, writing, “I got up at 4 a.m. and drove to a location that specifically said it would have this cup. I was first in line, they didn’t have it.”
According to the individual, she drove to four more locations, none of which had the Bearista in stock.
“[The employees] said they never did,” she added. “If you are going to excite people over this then make sure ALL stores have supply. So many people are disappointed.”
Starbucks’ Bear Cups Spark Widespread Fan Backlash
A fifth social media user was equally disheartened by the lack of stock considering the publicity push.
“I don’t usually comment on things like this, but I find it quite disappointing that a big company like Starbucks would release a new collection that clearly generates hype and inevitably, frustration,” an Instagram comment read. “I’m sorry, but this time the disappointment has real consequences. There are plenty of alternatives out there, and many of us feel let down. I know my opinion won’t change much, but this campaign has done nothing but fuel resale at absurd prices, feeding a market that shouldn’t even exist. It’s really disappointing, but I felt it was important to say it. Feedback is still feedback.”
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Has Starbucks Addressed the Bear Cup Stock Debacle?
On the heels of the social media backlash, Starbucks addressed the fan criticism and disappointment.
“The excitement for our merchandise exceeded even our biggest expectations and despite shipping more Bearista cups to coffeehouses than almost any other merchandise item this holiday season, the Bearista cup and some other items sold out fast,” a statement from a brand spokesperson reads. “We understand many customers were excited about the Bearista cup and apologize for the disappointment this may have caused.”
Will Starbucks Restock the Bear Cups?
While the Starbucks rep teased in its statement that there will be “more exciting merchandise coming this holiday season,” it’s not known whether the Bearista cups would be included in the slate.
