Its newest launches and cup designs all hit US and Canada stores today (November 2).
A cup for change
In the summer, Starbucks announced it would be eliminating plastic straws in the wake of the plastic crisis movement. Its proposed straw solutions for iced drinks are spouted lids and paper straw alternatives.
It is now introducing a limited-edition reusable red cup with its other holiday launches. As a promotion, all customers who order a holiday beverage from US stores on November 2 will get a free reusable cup. They can then bring the cup back to Starbucks through January 7, 2019 and receive 50 cents off a grande holiday beverage.
Starbucks hopes the move will encourage customers to participate and bring their own cup along on their Starbucks visit.
Bringing back the past
Starbucks has also detailed its annual holiday offerings. The 2018 cups have four designs using colors and patterns that evoke nostalgia for the company’s history.
Kristy Cameron, of the Starbucks Creative Studio, said “We started this season by looking to the past … Looking back at our heritage, we found something lovely in our own story, with beautiful coffee and flavors that come together to make the season magical.”
Returning to stores on November 2 are beverage favorites like the Christmas Blend, Peppermint Mocha, Toasted White Chocolate Mocha, Caramel Brulée Latte, Chestnut Praline Latte, Gingerbread Latte and Eggnog Latte.
It also introduces new food options with a Chocolate Swirl Brioche, Pistachio Honey Croissant and Sugarplum Cheese Danish. These join returning food favorites Gingerbread Loaf, Penguin Cake Pop, Peppermint Brownie Cake Pop, Snowman Cookie, Cranberry Bliss Bar, Carved Ham and Swiss Breakfast Sandwich and Holiday Turkey Panini.
“When you come into Starbucks, there’s a festive vibe. Our customers have told us that the return of Starbucks holiday cups and beverages are a signal the season is upon us. We hope they feel the holiday magic that only Starbucks can create during this special time of year,” Cameron said.