Weeks after finding themselves in hot water over their 'Bearista' cup launch, Starbucks bosses have provided an update - and it's not what fans were hoping for.
For those in need of a reminder, the latest addition to the coffeehouse firm's festive menu was announced last month, having been given the adorable moniker the 'Bearista Cold Cup'.
The container in question described a a 20-ounce, bear-shaped tumbler, complete with a green-straw 'beanie' lid.
After debuting the cup on Instagram, caffeine-fanatics couldn't wait to get their hands on one ahead of the Christmas season.
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Sadly, however, minutes after being made available to purchase by the public, the 'Bearista' mugs hit headlines for all the wrong reasons, having totally sold out.
On top of this, some customers complained that they'd witnessed employees hoarding the hot stock themselves.
Voicing their frustration at the time, one Reddit user hit out last month: "I waited an hour before open to get the Bearista cup. We witnessed an employee pulling both off the shelf and buying them two minutes before store open, right in front of us waiting outside."
Another claimed: "I asked a few stores around my area yesterday. They told me they will have zero when stores open since employees get first dibs."
At the time, Starbucks representatives were forced to issue a formal apology, acknowledging that demand had 'exceeded expectations' and that many customers were left disappointed.
"The excitement for our merchandise exceeded even our biggest expectations and despite shipping more Bearista cups to coffeehouses than almost any other merchandise item this holiday season, the Bearista cup and some other items sold out fast," a spokesperson said in a statement.
"We understand many customers were excited about the Bearista cup and apologise for the disappointment this may have caused."
Naturally, the remark left fans feeling hopeful that a restock would be imminent.
Unfortunately, though, following a further update from Starbucks bosses this week, it looks as though the disappointment is set to continue.
On Monday (8 December), reps for the coffee franchise revealed that customers would have another 'chance' to bag the cups, but only by winning the Starbucks for Life holiday game - something only available to Starbucks Rewards members.
Taking to the brand's official Instagram, a photo of the sold out mug was featured, alongside a description that read: "Your chance is in the Starbucks app. Tomorrow, 12/8."
Through the newly-announced game, though, these lucky folks can also bag prizes like Starbucks gift cards, free Starbucks for a whole year, and even free Starbucks for a whole lifetime - on top of handcrafted beverages, cake pops, bonus stars.
Apparently, over 600 'Bearista' cups will be available to win through the game.
Furthermore, the chain reportedly confirmed to USA Today that there are currently no plans for a further restock of the 'Bearista' cups.
If you're not a Rewards Member, however, worry not - you'll be able to land yourself a considerably cheaper dupe from these options we've already gathered for you right here.
Topics: Starbucks, Food and Drink, Real Life, True Life, US News
Rhianna Benson