This holiday season Starbucks released more than just their classic peppermint mochas; the company released a cup that caused a nationwide stir. Starbucks’ latest limited edition release–a clear teddy bear-designed cup–sent fans into a frenzy. From long lines at stores opening and instant sell outs, the “Bear Cup” has quickly become the most sought-after item of the season. The hype exploded across Tiktok and Instagram, where videos of people showing off the cup-or their attempts to hunt it down-went viral. “Once I saw everyone posting it I knew it would sell out fast,” said senior Lima Mohamed.
What’s driving the hype? “They are so cute I wish I had gotten the chance to get one,” said freshman Jayla Schauer. What Starbucks thought would be a cute seasonal item instead turned into one of the most talked about items of the season. Starbucks even confirmed there are no plans to restock them. The cups were sold at $29.95 and due to the popularity and limited supply quickly selling out, they are being resold online for significantly higher prices, ranging from hundreds to over a thousand dollars on sites such as eBay. Naturally, other companies tried to also join in, creating dupes of the popular cup hoping to attract some of the hype also. Many agree the cup just couldn’t be matched.
With some craze came controversy. Some customers began accusing Starbucks workers of taking bear cups before they hit the shelves. Several viral videos claimed employees were buying them immediately or holding for friends and family, leaving fewer for the public. Although Starbucks did not make a statement about the accusations, they intensified the competition.
With no confirmed restock, the Christmas bear cup has become a surprise obsession. This tiny cup has for sure caused holiday craze nationwide.
