Starbucks finally revealed the real meaning behind their latest red cups which sparked many debates. The largest coffee chain has clarified the significance of the controversial cups, hoping to settle the issues surrounding them.
When Starbucks released their popular red cups as an annual tradition for the Holiday season last November 1, various costumers were astonished by the very simple design of the new cups. The plain red design with no adornments is noticeable which led to some controversies that concern Christianity and even politics.
One of the people who stirred the minds of the public is Joshua Feuerstein, who is an Arizona-based pastor who claimed also to be a "social media personality". On his official Facebook page, he posted a video last November 5 that speaks about Starbucks hatred towards Christians.
He stated that the sudden change of design of Starbuck's cups is a hint that the American coffee company is removing Christ and Christmas through the red plain cups.
Even though the idea presented in the video sounds absurd and nonsensical, Feuerstein's theory actually made his social media status rose. The video he posted was shared more than 201,000 times and was viewed by approximately 14 million times. He also had a huge group of followers who are Christians.
Aside from that, his video garnered 1.8 million likers who mostly are against his idea.
In November 8, Starbucks finally gave their word about the controversy of their red cups. The American company said that it is their tradition to change the design of their cups every year as they anticipate the holiday season.
Starbucks stated that for this year, they chose an ombré design - a brighter red on the top going darker in the bottom - for the purpose of simplicity.
In a statement, Jeffrey Fields explained the reason behind Starbuck's red design.
"Starbucks has become a place of sanctuary during the holidays. We're embracing the simplicity and the quietness of it. It's a more open way to usher in the holiday" said by the Starbuck's vice president of design and content.
