"Viral holiday products are certainly nothing new - and even predate social media. Gen Xers may remember the run on Cabbage Patch Kids in the early 1980s or even the mad rush to grab a Tickle Me Elmo in 1996. Much like the Stanley cup craze of 2024, the most sought-after item in the country this holiday season is, once again, a cup."
"It's not just any drinking vessel, though: Last week, Starbucks released a very limited edition 20-ounce bear-shaped glass cup called the Bearista, and people lost their minds on social media and at locations across the country. To call it "limited edition" might be generous, since reports are saying that many locations only received one or two Bearistas for the entire store."
The limited-edition 20-ounce bear-shaped glass Bearista cup from Starbucks triggered nationwide demand, long lines, and confrontations as customers sought scarce stock. Many store locations reportedly received only one or two units, prompting intense competition and overnight campouts. Reports described social media frenzy, alleged employee hoarding or favoritism, and instances of brawls over the $29.95 cup. Some shoppers traveled between stores and retailers like Target to find the cup. Starbucks issued an apology and acknowledged that merchandise excitement exceeded expectations. The item resembled supermarket honey-bottle bears and quickly became a sought-after holiday collectible.
Read at SFGATE
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