A new Beyoncé merchandise collection is drawing sharp criticism online, not for the music it promotes, but for the price tags attached to everyday items — including an empty wooden crate listed at $950.
The items in question appear to be part of a premium line tied to the Cowboy Carter era. Alongside the crate, a single birthday candle is priced at $40, and a basic t-shirt sells for $75. Fans have also pointed out that the high prices do not include free shipping, adding another layer of frustration.
On social media, reactions range from disbelief to outright anger. One viral post showed the crate with the caption, "Oh No They Didn't!" while another user sarcastically noted, "For 900 dollars beyonce better hop out that damn box and lick honey off my…" The criticism has also sparked comparisons to other artists, with some fans arguing that Taylor Swift's practice of selling multiple vinyl variants is somehow seen as greedier than a $950 box.
The backlash comes amid a long-running demand from the BeyHive for the release of visual albums and new music, particularly what fans call "Act III." Some have joked that the crate might be the only way to finally get a response from the singer.
This is not the first time celebrity merchandise has faced scrutiny over pricing, but the scale of the reaction suggests this one has struck a nerve. Whether Beyoncé or her team will respond to the criticism remains to be seen. For now, the debate over what a cardboard box is really worth shows no signs of slowing down.