After Trump Jab, Starbucks Sounds Off in Red Cup Controversy
Whether it was the protest against their new holiday cup design or the paroxysmic response to the social media reactions, social media frenzy has catapulted Starbucks into the spotlight.
There appear to be two distinct camps emerging from the chaos: Folks who believe #ItsJustACup and others who insist on a boycott, such as Donald Trump.
To the coffee giant, however, the simplicity is meant to fuel creativity.
“Since 1997, Starbucks has served its holiday beverages in a unique cup, starting with a jazz-themed design in jewel tones of deeper reds, greens and blues. Every year since, the cup has told a story of the holidays by featuring symbols of the season from vintage ornaments and hand-drawn reindeer to modern vector-illustrated characters,” the company said. “Taking a cue from customers who have been doodling designs on cups for years (Starbucks held a contest to support this creativity), this year’s design is another way Starbucks is inviting customers to create their own stories with a red cup that mimics a blank canvas.”
While Starbucks may be under pressure for quite literally nothing, competitors are embracing the Christmas cheer. Dunkin Donuts even has the word joy etched on their Styrofoam.
