Starbucks latest holiday gimmick shouts 'Reduce.Reuse.Recycle'

If you're one of the millions who cannot start your day off without a cup of java, there's a good chance that you've been drinking in throwaway cups for years, adding to the waste going into landfills.

On November 2, Starbucks came out with a limited edition only-while-stocks-last reusable red holiday cup, and some customers who lost out are livid.

Not only will the cups go a long way to reducing pollution, but they also save lucky customers money at the tills. Customers with cups get 50 cents off any Grande-sized holiday drink between November 3 and January 7.

Read more on our Twitter account @amomama_usa.

Customers took to Instagram to complain about not receiving their cups or being asked to pay for one. Participating stores were reportedly sold out within half an hour of opening.

"You should’ve had more red cups. I went to my local Starbucks and they were gone within 30 mins"

Starbucks was quite clear that November 2 was the only day these reusable cups would be available and customers expecting to get them after that would be disappointed.

"Great idea, but so many locations were out before 8am due to having received only 25-45 cups total. Hopefully @starbucks will try this again and have more cups available!"

Another customer complaint was that the cups were only available at participating stores in the US and Canada, leaving International Starbucks fans with a sour taste in their mouths.

"Why not in Mexico?"

The Starbucks newsroom also announced the early arrival of four holiday cups designed in a retro style using the familiar red, green, and white colors for Christmas.

“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.”

With their fans this thrilled about the cups coming out, and eager to support Starbucks's every inspired move, it's only fair that they devise more ways of bringing eco-friendly cups to their customers.

Reduce. Reuse. Recycle. It's the right thing to do.