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Why Are Starbucks Mugs So Expensive?

Starbucks Mugs

If you are a Starbucks fan and dream of collecting all their signature mugs, you might wonder why their prices are so high.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

The reasons why Starbucks mugs are so expensive are:

  • First, Starbucks has to make up for its overhead costs.
  • The mugs are of high quality.
  • There are multiple patents on the mugs, and they can’t be copied.
  • They are elegantly designed.
  • They have good temperature control.

To help you understand better, we have written an extensive guide on why Starbucks mugs are so expensive.

Why Are Starbucks Mugs So Expensive?

Starbuck Coffee Mug

Starbucks coffee is undoubtedly the most famous in the world. They have over 33,000 stores in more than 80 countries, making them the biggest coffee chain in the world, followed by Dunkin’ Donuts and Tim Hortons.

Due to this enormous brand name that Starbucks has created for itself, devoted fans are willing to buy even the most pricey items with their label. Their iconic mugs are especially a favorite among coffee lovers worldwide.

But, like their food items, their mugs are also pricier. So you might wonder what goes into creating these mugs that make them different from the regular ones.

In reality, there are more reasons than just the brand name that makes up these mugs’ total cost. Let’s discuss some of them briefly.

1. Overhead Costs

Overhead Cost

Starbucks undeniably makes one of the best-tasting coffee in the world, but that’s not the only good thing about the brand. The outlook and vibe of its stores are also an attraction to the customers.

Starbucks invests a lot of money in the infrastructure and hiring skilled workers to maintain its quality and service throughout its thousands of stores.

These overhead costs require billions of dollars worth of funding which they make up for by charging high prices for their products, including mugs.

2. High-Quality

Hight Quality

The Starbucks mugs cost more than the normal ones at a supermarket, but so is their quality. Each one of their mugs is handcrafted and one of a kind.

In addition, they are made of ceramic which means they are not biodegradable and last a long time.

3. Patented

Starbucks Patent

Starbucks holds multiple patents on its mugs to ensure no one copies or sells its designs. This is a part of their business strategy, which offers exclusivity to the customers but comes at a price.

INFO

Starbucks ensures the authenticity of its mugs by not selling them to any third-party vendors. You can only purchase one at their physical store or official website.

4. Classy Designs

Starbucks Logo Design

Unlike many other over-the-top brands, Starbucks mugs have minimalistic and classy-looking designs. Most of them have the signature mermaid logo on the front and subtle patterns on the back, which give you great value for their high price.

Not only do these mugs look beautiful, but they also give you a feeling of sophistication and royalty.

5. Good Temperature Control

Starbucks For Hot Tea

The temperature of the coffee is essential in enhancing the whole drinking experience. Considering this, Starbucks has created mugs with good temperature control.

No matter the season, these mugs ensure that your cold drinks remain cold and your hot beverages stay warm for a long time. This added feature costs you a dollar or two more than any regular mug, along with some added benefits.

6. Seasonal and Limited Edition Mugs

Limited Edition

Starbucks often releases limited edition mugs during the holiday season. As there is a limited supply of these handcrafted mugs, people are willing to sacrifice a lot to get their hands on these premium and exclusive items from the top coffee supplier in the world.

As a result, a surge in demand ultimately leads to higher prices.

FACT

The Starbucks Holiday Edition (2001) cup retailed for $35 and was recently sold on eBay for over $4000.

Conclusion

This guide discussed why Starbucks mugs are so expensive and what makes them unique.

We hope this article has answered your question and that now you know what goes on in making these mugs from your favorite coffee brand.

Frequently Asked Questions

Did Starbucks Stop Selling Mugs?

Yes, Starbucks has discontinued making new mugs since 2018. However, you can still find many being resold for higher prices at websites like eBay.

Are Starbucks Mugs Collectible?

Since Starbucks stopped making new mugs, the older ones have become collectible and are now worth quite a lot of money.

What Is Starbucks’ Most Expensive Cup?

A 2009 mug from a Starbucks shop in Corfu, Greece, has recently been sold for a staggering $1,875 and is one of its most expensive mugs.

A clear cup with pink alpacas from a 2019 Starbucks collection also got sold for $1,075.99.

What Is the Number 1 Starbucks Drink?

According to 28% of the participants in a Mashed poll, the best Starbucks frappuccino drink is caramel.

The recipe includes whole milk, caramel syrup, frappuccino roast, whipped cream, ice, and a caramel drizzle.

What Are Starbucks Cups Called?

Currently, Starbucks has five sizes of cups for their coffee: short, tall, grande, venti, and demi, with the capacity of 8, 12, 16, 20, and 3 ounces, respectively.

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