Starbucks' green 'unity' cup draws divided reactions
Coffee giant Starbucks is at the center of yet another controversy after the company unveiled a new line of green cups at the height of election fever in the US.
Originally commissioned to evoke unity and goodwill, Starbucks' good intentions seem to have backfired early, with angry consumers blasting the move.
The limited-edition cup features a hundred people -- coffee farmer, family, barista, friends embracing -- drawn in one continuous stroke to represent unity, humanity and connections.
“During a divisive time in our country, 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 CEO Howard Schultz in a statement alluding to the US election.
Voters head to the polls November 8.
But reaction to the green cup has been swift and bitter, with some consumers blasting the company for wading into politics and calling the move “a war on Christmas.”
“@Starbucks Screw you. My coffee should NOT (and does NOT) come with political brainwashing. I dropped @Starbucks like a hot rock,” one tweet read.
Other loyal fans of the festive red cup likewise vented their frustrations.
“Went to get my first Red Cup and it's GREEN? WHAT? My gingerbread latte is instantly less festive. So mad @Starbucks,” tweeted another.
It's not the first time Starbucks has inadvertently found itself at the center of a marketing storm.
Last year, consumers reacted angrily to the company's “Race Together” campaign, which was meant to elevate the level of discourse and compassion on race relations.
“Not sure what @Starbucks was thinking. I don't have time to explain 400 years of oppression to you & still make my train. #RaceTogether,” wrote one consumer on Twitter.
But the green cup also has its fans, with some applauding the campaign for trying to bring positivity during an extraordinary election campaign.
Wrote one Boston-based fan: “@Starbucks love it! Desperately needed reminder in turbulent times.”
Meanwhile, consumers who worry that the green cup is permanent this holiday season can breathe a sigh of relief as the festive red cup is expected to make its appearance later this month.
