Starbucks controversy after red holiday cups lack traditional holiday images

Starbucks is brewing up controversy over their new holiday cup design. The coffee chain says it removed typical holiday images, like reindeer and ornaments, from their red cups in order for them to promote a design that they say caters to everyone.

"In the past, we have told stories with our holiday cups designs," said Jeffrey Fields, Starbucks vice president of Design & Content in an online statement. "This year we wanted to usher in the holidays with a purity of design that welcomes all of our stories."

"We're embracing the simplicity and the quietness of it. It's more open way to usher in the holiday," his statement continued.

Some Christians are now slamming the idea, claiming Starbucks is biased and is promoting a hatred of Jesus.

Some are also encouraging Starbucks customers to use "Merry Christmas" instead of their names, which would force the baristas to write the holiday greeting on the cups.

One British Christian group has even gone as far as to call it a "War On Christmas."

This is not the first time Starbucks has been criticized for its cup design.

Back in 2005, the company launched its "The Way I See It" campaign which featured quotes on their cups from notable figures and included opinions on controversial topics such as gay marriage

Starbucks eventually faded out that campaign.

READ THE FULL STATEMENT HERE: https://news.starbucks.com/news/the-story-behind-the-design-of-starbucks-red-holiday-cups-for-2015