Starbucks fans have been taken aback by a major announcement as the coffee giant prepares to introduce a strict new policy. This follows news that a viral sensation is making its UK debut after causing a frenzy over in the US.
Breaking the news via the official Starbucks UK Instagram account, a company spokesperson said: “This is not a drill… see you 15.01”. The image reveals the distinctive ‘Bearista’ cup, complete with its signature green beanie hat and coordinating straw.
The teddy bear-shaped cup, which became a sensation in America, is due to launch in the UK on January 15. Followers were quick to express their excitement, with one commenting beneath the Instagram announcement: “I can’t believe we’re getting them too!”
Another fan said: “I’ve set my reminder… I’ll be there!” A third put: “Let’s hope you supply each store with more than one this time so it doesn’t resemble the Hunger Games!”
Someone else wrote: “Hope it’s not going to be chaotic like it was in America!” A fifth person commented: “As much as I’d like one, I just cba if it’s going to cause a riot!”, reports the Mirror.
The announcement clarified that customers would be restricted to purchasing one Bearista cup each, with reports suggesting that not every branch of the coffee shop will be taking part in the promotion. British followers of the global chain may have witnessed viral footage shared in 2025 when the limited-edition cup launched in America.
Outlets received extremely limited stock, despite overwhelming customer interest. Certain branches had merely a handful of cups available, which vanished within moments of opening, despite devoted coffee enthusiasts queuing from as early as 2am.
What exactly is this cup, what makes it so special, and what’s the expected price?
Starbucks revealed the UK launch of the Bearista Cold Cups – a transparent bear-shaped cup complete with straw and accompanied by a green beanie hat – via social media earlier today, January 12. The cups first appeared stateside last November 2025 as part of a ‘Holiday’ collection.
Following its appearance online, fans of the coffee giant were instantly in love. Plenty claimed they “needed” the adorable bear-shaped cup for themselves, leading to interest on social media.
In America, it retailed for $29.95. Whilst official UK pricing remains unconfirmed, based on similar pricing strategies, shoppers could expect to pay around £22 (at current exchange rates) when the cup launches on January 15.
Customers can locate their closest Starbucks outlet using the online store finder available here. This provides details on trading hours, which differ by location, with certain branches welcoming customers from 6.30am, whilst others open slightly later at 7am.
What else is new at Starbucks in 2026?
Before announcing the arrival of the Bearista, Starbucks UK confirmed that it will be launching a brand-new menu in January 2026. It started to be sold on January 8 in stores across the country, and included new drinks, meals and snacks.
Here is a full list of what is new and returning to the 2026 menu, while stocks last. The overriding theme this month is a mix of pistachio and matcha. Prices may vary at different Starbucks locations:
- NEW – Pistachio Matcha Latte
- NEW – Iced Pistachio Matcha Latte
- NEW – Ristretto Bianco
- RETURNING – Pistachio Oat Velvet Latte
- RETURNING – Iced Pistachio Velvet Oat Latte
- RETURNING – Egg White Bites with Three Cheese and Red Pepper
- RETURNING – Berry Crunch
- RETURNING – Pistachio White Chocolate Loaf Cake