Earlier this month, Starbucks triggered a nationwide frenzy with the release of a limited-edition bear-shaped cold cup, proving once again that branded merchandise can generate as much excitement as coffee itself. The $29.95 glass “Bearista” cup quickly became the most talked-about item of the season.
Shoppers lined up outside stores as early as 4 a.m., only to find the cups selling out within minutes. The intense demand left many customers disappointed and fueled viral videos, resale markups, and even store disruptions. Now, as frustration lingers, Walmart has stepped in with an accessible alternative that closely mirrors the original design.
Overview: Starbucks Bear Cup vs Walmart Bear Cup
| Feature | Starbucks Bearista Cup | Walmart Bear Cup Dupe |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $29.95 | Around $22 |
| Material | Glass | Glass |
| Capacity | 20 ounces | 20 ounces |
| Availability | Sold out | In stock online |
| Logo Branding | Starbucks branding | No logo |
| Resale Market | Hundreds to thousands | Not applicable |
How the Bear Cup Became a Viral Sensation?
The Starbucks Bearista cup was intended as a festive seasonal release, but its popularity quickly exceeded expectations. Videos flooded TikTok showing long lines, emotional reactions, and disappointed shoppers leaving empty-handed.
In one widely shared clip, a shopper claimed she paid $1,000 to buy the cup from a reseller. In another incident, police were reportedly called to a Starbucks location in Houston after a dispute broke out over the merchandise.
Retail analyst Monica Harris said, “Limited quantities combined with social media hype create the perfect storm. When people believe something is scarce, demand escalates instantly, often beyond what brands anticipate.”
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Starbucks Responds as Walmart Steps In
As backlash grew, Starbucks addressed the situation publicly. In a statement shared with New York Post, the company acknowledged the overwhelming demand.
“The excitement for our merchandise exceeded even our biggest expectations,” the company said. “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.”
While Starbucks has not announced a restock, Walmart quietly introduced its own bear-themed glass cups online. The design closely resembles the Bearista cup, complete with a blue hat and similar proportions, but without Starbucks branding.
Walmart’s version holds 20 ounces, the same size as a Starbucks venti cold drink, and is made from glass. Multiple vendors sell slightly different versions on Walmart’s website, so shoppers are advised to check product details carefully before purchasing.
Why Walmart’s Version Works?
Retail merchandising expert David Klein explained why Walmart’s timing matters. “When consumers miss out on a viral product, they are primed to buy an alternative. Walmart benefits from scale, inventory depth, and speed, which allows it to meet demand when specialty retailers cannot.”
Food and beverage branding consultant Laura Simmons added, “Starbucks sells emotion and experience. Walmart sells access. In moments like this, access wins.”
Shoppers online appear to agree.
One customer wrote in a review, “It looks almost identical, and I didn’t have to stand in line or pay reseller prices.”
What This Means for Shoppers and Retailers?
The bear cup frenzy highlights a growing trend in retail, where merchandise can go viral as quickly as fashion drops or tech gadgets. For consumers, it also underscores the risks of limited releases, including inflated resale prices and shopping stress.
Walmart’s bear cup, priced around $22, offers a more attainable option. While still more expensive than a standard glass, it represents a notable discount compared with Starbucks’ original price and a dramatic savings compared with resale listings.
Retail strategist Emily Norton said, “This situation reinforces why major retailers like Walmart often win in the long run. They may not create the hype, but they absorb the demand.”
Practical Consideration: One Drawback Shoppers Should Know
There is one issue shared by both the Starbucks and Walmart versions of the cup. The 20-ounce bear design does not fit into most standard car cup holders.
One TikTok user demonstrated the issue in a viral video, showing the cup repeatedly tipping over when placed in her car. While that may be inconvenient for commuters, many shoppers say the design is more suited for home use or desks.
Lifestyle blogger Rachel Owens commented, “It’s definitely more of a cozy, at-home cup. If you want something cute for winter drinks, it works. If you want portability, maybe not.”
Final Thought
The viral Starbucks Bearista cup may have captured the internet’s attention, but Walmart’s accessible alternative shows how quickly retail demand can shift when availability becomes the deciding factor. For shoppers who missed out or refused to pay inflated resale prices, Walmart’s bear cup offers a practical compromise.
As viral merchandise continues to shape shopping behavior, retailers that balance trend awareness with inventory readiness are likely to benefit most. For now, the bear cup moment belongs not just to Starbucks, but to Walmart’s ability to deliver when demand is at its peak.
FAQs
How much did the Starbucks bear cup cost?
The original price was $29.95.
Is Walmart’s bear cup made of glass?
Yes, selected versions are made of glass.
Does Walmart’s bear cup hold the same amount?
Yes, it holds 20 ounces.
Is the Walmart cup an official Starbucks product?
No, it does not carry Starbucks branding.
Does the bear cup fit in car cup holders?
No, it generally does not fit standard holders.
