Starbucks launched its limited edition green design on Tuesday by saying the cup was about developing ‘unity’ at a time of great division.

It comissioned artist Shogo Ota to create the design to demonstrate ‘humanity and connection’.
Howard Schultz, Starbucks CEO, said: “The green cup and the design represent the connections Starbucks has as a community with its partners (employees) and customers. During a divisive time in our country, Starbucks wanted to create a symbol of unity as a reminder of our shared values, and the need to be good to each other.”

It’s not the first time Starbucks has found itself at the centre of a political storm over the colour of its cups.Last year, Christian evangelicals in America claimed the Seattle-based chain had declared “war on Christmas” by using a simple shade of red on its festive packaging.