Starbucks customers across Britain have been left stunned after a limited-edition drinking cup sparked a buying frenzy, with resellers now asking for nearly £300 online. The sought-after Bearista Cup, a glass bottle shaped like a bear, hit UK stores on Thursday, January 15, 2026, leading to queues and sell-outs.
The Hunt for the Viral Starbucks Cup
Originally causing a stir in the United States last November, where customers queued from 2am, the craze officially landed on British shores last week. The cup, which retails for £27.95, features a green hat adorned with the Starbucks logo and a matching green and white striped straw. Its adorable design caused a social media storm, with thousands of Brits determined to secure one on launch day.
Eyewatering Resale Prices Shock Shoppers
Almost immediately, the cups began appearing on resale platforms for massively inflated prices. On Vinted, one seller based in London is listing a brand new, boxed cup with a receipt for a staggering £299. The listing description confirms it was "bought in London, UK Jan 2026" and is "not used." They are not alone; numerous other listings have been spotted asking for around £250 for the glass bear.
Public Backlash Against "Greedy" Resellers
The sky-high resale prices have provoked a fierce backlash from the British public on social media. One horrified commenter stated, "£500 for a glass bear... straight to jail," labelling the sellers "actual criminals." Another criticised the "reseller core," asking "how greedy can y'all be." A third expressed frustration, saying the practice made them "so mad" and that they would never buy the item just to flip it for profit.
Some have gone even further, with one person claiming they are "reporting every single" overpriced listing they see. The sentiment highlights a growing frustration with the practice of buying high-demand retail items solely for profiteering, turning a fun launch into a costly battleground for genuine fans.
