New Delhi, Nov. 9 -- Starbucks has finally broken its silence after a wave of backlash over its sold-out Christmas merchandise - the limited-edition Bearista cups - which disappeared from shelves almost instantly, leaving fans fuming and the coffee giant scrambling to apologise.

The festive frenzy began when Starbucks released its 20-ounce bear-shaped iced coffee glasses to mark the Christmas season. Within hours of the November 6 launch, the merchandise was sold out nationwide, sparking outrage across social media.

Loyal customers accused Starbucks of poor planning - and, in some cases, of employees snapping up the stock before stores even opened.

"The excitement for our merchandise exceeded even our biggest expectations," Starbucks s...