Starbucks' New Green Cup Imprinted With 100 Faces Causes Uproar
Starbucks' red cups are iconic: They mark the end of summer and early fall, and the beginning of the holiday season (as well as the introduction of winter favorites like the Peppermint Mocha Frappuccino).Last year, Starbucks' cups were the subject of controversy when they were printed with non-denominational wintery designs instead of a Christmas-themed one. This year is even worse: Starbucks has released green cups imprinted with 100 faces drawn by an artist in a single stroke. The reaction from fans has ranged from baffled to angry.
THE STARBUCKS CUPS ARE GREEN. CANCEL THEM.
— John Jannuzzi (@johnjannuzzi) November 1, 2016
imagine graduating from college just to analyze why people are mad at starbucks for using green cups instead of red
— d (@get_monet) November 1, 2016
HOW IS IT OK THAT THE STARBUCKS HOLIDAY CUPS ARE GREEN TBH I FEEL LIKE MY WHOLE LIFE HAS BEEN A LIE.
— sara ashley (@sarazimzim) October 31, 2016
Spoiler alert: The green cups are not actually holiday cups. The iconic red cup is still coming. In the press release about the new cup, the word "holiday" is not mentioned.
"The green cup and the design represent the connections Starbucks has as a community with its partners (employees) and customers. During a divisive time in our county, Starbucks wanted to create a symbol of unity as a reminder of our shared values, and the need to be good to each other," said Howard Schultz, chairman and CEO.
A company spokesperson confirmed that the rest of Starbucks' "holiday plans" are still under wraps.
Nov. 1 also sees the return of Starbucks holiday season favorites like the Chestnut Praline Latte, Caramel Brulée Latte, and Peppermint Mocha.