Starbucks Corp. is exploring strategic options for its China business, including a possible stake sale, Bloomberg reported.
The coffee giant, which is facing mounting pressure from local competitors such as Luckin Coffee and Cotti Coffee, has reached out to private equity firms, technology companies, and other potential investors to gauge interest in its operations in the country.
The move comes as Starbucks grapples with increased competition and macroeconomic challenges in its second-largest market. Despite having more than 7,750 stores in China, the company's revenue in the region has faltered, generating nearly $740 million in the first quarter of 2025. This is well below the $1.2 billion net revenue posted by Luckin Coffee, which has rapidly expanded its footprint in the Chinese coffee market.
The Bloomberg report suggests the company is considering a transaction that could value its China assets in the billions of dollars. Potential investors are expected to submit initial feedback soon, although it remains unclear whether Starbucks will move forward with a deal.
During a recent earnings call, Starbucks CEO Brian Niccol reaffirmed the company's long-term commitment to China. Niccol also mentioned that the company has made changes to its product offerings and pricing to improve performance.
Starbucks' move to explore a potential stake sale follows a similar path taken by other global chains such as McDonald's and Yum! Brands, which both sold stakes in their China operations to private equity firms to better cater to local tastes and tap into growth opportunities.
<h2>More challenges on the plate</h2>
In a separate development, Starbucks faces labour unrest in the United States as employees at around 100 unionised locations have walked off the job since Sunday. The strikes are in response to a new dress code policy, which requires baristas to wear solid black tops, replacing the previous policy that allowed employees to wear shirts in any colour. The new policy also introduces stricter guidelines on the bottoms workers can wear.
Workers United, the union representing baristas at over 570 US Starbucks locations, claims the dress code changes are an attempt by the company to undermine union negotiations. The union filed a complaint with the US National Labor Relations Board, alleging that the changes are unlawful and demonstrate that the company is not negotiating fairly.
While Starbucks insists that less than 1 per cent of its US workers are participating in the strikes and that most stores have remained open, the labour group maintains that the protests highlight growing dissatisfaction among workers. Starbucks responded by saying that it continues to bargain in good faith and urged the union to return to the negotiating table, emphasising that differences in store policies will be addressed lawfully and fairly.
As the company faces pressure both from internal labour disputes and external market challenges, the decisions it makes over the next few months will have significant implications for its operations both in the US and abroad.

Business & Economy: The coffee giant, which is facing mounting pressure from local competitors has reached out to PE firms, technology firms, and others to gauge interest

Starbucks Corp. is exploring strategic options for its China business, including a possible stake sale, Bloomberg reported. The coffee giant, which is facing mounting pressure from local competitors such as Luckin Coffee and Cotti Coffee, has reached out to private equity firms, technology companies, and other potential investors to gauge interest in its operations in the country. The move comes as Starbucks grapples with increased competition and macroeconomic challenges in its second-largest market. Despite having more than 7,750 stores in China, the company's revenue in the region has faltered, generating nearly $740 million in the first quarter of 2025. This is well below the $1.2 billion net revenue posted by Luckin Coffee, which has rapidly expanded its footprint in the Chinese coffee market. The Bloomberg report suggests the company is considering a transaction that could value its China assets in the billions of dollars. Potential investors are expected to submit initial feedback soon, although it remains unclear whether Starbucks will move forward with a deal. During a recent earnings call, Starbucks CEO Brian Niccol reaffirmed the company's long-term commitment to China. Niccol also mentioned that the company has made changes to its product offerings and pricing to improve performance. Starbucks' move to explore a potential stake sale follows a similar path taken by other global chains such as McDonald's and Yum! Brands, which both sold stakes in their China operations to private equity firms to better cater to local tastes and tap into growth opportunities. More challenges on the plate In a separate development, Starbucks faces labour unrest in the United States as employees at around 100 unionised locations have walked off the job since Sunday. The strikes are in response to a new dress code policy, which requires baristas to wear solid black tops, replacing the previous policy that allowed employees to wear shirts in any colour. The new policy also introduces stricter guidelines on the bottoms workers can wear. Workers United, the union representing baristas at over 570 US Starbucks locations, claims the dress code changes are an attempt by the company to undermine union negotiations. The union filed a complaint with the US National Labor Relations Board, alleging that the changes are unlawful and demonstrate that the company is not negotiating fairly. While Starbucks insists that less than 1 per cent of its US workers are participating in the strikes and that most stores have remained open, the labour group maintains that the protests highlight growing dissatisfaction among workers. Starbucks responded by saying that it continues to bargain in good faith and urged the union to return to the negotiating table, emphasising that differences in store policies will be addressed lawfully and fairly. As the company faces pressure both from internal labour disputes and external market challenges, the decisions it makes over the next few months will have significant implications for its operations both in the US and abroad.

Starbucks explores stake sale for its China business

Starbucks posted preliminary quarter four (Q4) results that took the Street by surprise on Tuesday afternoon. The company reported quarterly revenue that fell 3 per cent year over year to $9.1 billion, while earnings per share fell 24 per cent to $0.80.

Starbucks also suspended its full-year fiscal 2025 guidance, citing its transition to new CEO Brian Niccol and to allow time to re-strategize. Due to this development shares of the company quickly dropped 3 per cent in after-market trading.<o:p></o:p>

US same-store sales decreased 6 per cent year over year in Q4, with a 10 per cent decline in foot traffic and a 4 per cent increase in the average ticket.

Its much-publicized in-app promotions and deals haven't moved the needle. The company's pairing menu, which offered US customers a small coffee with a croissant or breakfast sandwich for $5 or $6, "did not improve customer behaviours," as per its release.

Intensified competition impacts sales in China<o:p></o:p>

Starbucks China's same-store sales fell 14 per cent, with a 6 per cent drop in foot traffic and an 8 per cent decline in the average ticket size. The company attributed the performance to "intensified competition and a soft macro environment that impacted consumer spending."

Prior to the report, Starbucks shares were up 3 per cent year to date, but up 10 per cent in the past six months after investors grew optimistic about former Chipotle (CMG) CEO Niccol taking the helm. The company still plans to release its official fourth quarter and full fiscal year 2024 financial results after market close on Oct. 30.

The Yahoo Finance report further stated that the number shows the long road ahead for Niccol as he tries to get Starbucks back on track. He has initiated a change in the management ranks, including bringing in long-time friend Tressie Lieberman as global chief brand officer. Liberman will start on November &nbsp;4 after her most recent role as Yahoo CMO.

In a video posted on Starbucks' site, Niccol re-emphasized some of the key issues he outlined in a letter during his first week, including the need to simplify its menu, fix its pricing and value perception, and build return customers.

"We're fundamentally changing our marketing. We’ve been focusing on Starbucks Rewards customers, rather than talking to all our customers. We’re changing quickly, as you likely have already seen," said Niccol, known in his career for his marketing expertise.<o:p></o:p>

“I believe that our problems are very fixable and that we have significant strengths to build on. I’ve spent my career understanding, stewarding, and building brands, and it’s clear the Starbucks brand is strong and enduring,” he added. Market participants and investors will closely follow the developments in company to take informed investment decisions in the future.

Starbucks posted preliminary quarter four (Q4) results that took the Street by surprise on Tuesday afternoon. The company reported quarterly revenue that fell 3 per cent year over year to $9.

Starbucks posted preliminary quarter four (Q4) results that took the Street by surprise on Tuesday afternoon. The company reported quarterly revenue that fell 3 per cent year over year to $9.1 billion, while earnings per share fell 24 per cent to $0.80. Starbucks also suspended its full-year fiscal 2025 guidance, citing its transition to new CEO Brian Niccol and to allow time to re-strategize. Due to this development shares of the company quickly dropped 3 per cent in after-market trading. US same-store sales decreased 6 per cent year over year in Q4, with a 10 per cent decline in foot traffic and a 4 per cent increase in the average ticket. Its much-publicized in-app promotions and deals haven't moved the needle. The company's pairing menu, which offered US customers a small coffee with a croissant or breakfast sandwich for $5 or $6, "did not improve customer behaviours," as per its release. Intensified competition impacts sales in China Starbucks China's same-store sales fell 14 per cent, with a 6 per cent drop in foot traffic and an 8 per cent decline in the average ticket size. The company attributed the performance to "intensified competition and a soft macro environment that impacted consumer spending." Prior to the report, Starbucks shares were up 3 per cent year to date, but up 10 per cent in the past six months after investors grew optimistic about former Chipotle (CMG) CEO Niccol taking the helm. The company still plans to release its official fourth quarter and full fiscal year 2024 financial results after market close on Oct. 30. The Yahoo Finance report further stated that the number shows the long road ahead for Niccol as he tries to get Starbucks back on track. He has initiated a change in the management ranks, including bringing in long-time friend Tressie Lieberman as global chief brand officer. Liberman will start on November 4 after her most recent role as Yahoo CMO. In a video posted on Starbucks' site, Niccol re-emphasized some of the key issues he outlined in a letter during his first week, including the need to simplify its menu, fix its pricing and value perception, and build return customers. "We're fundamentally changing our marketing. We’ve been focusing on Starbucks Rewards customers, rather than talking to all our customers. We’re changing quickly, as you likely have already seen," said Niccol, known in his career for his marketing expertise. “I believe that our problems are very fixable and that we have significant strengths to build on. I’ve spent my career understanding, stewarding, and building brands, and it’s clear the Starbucks brand is strong and enduring,” he added. Market participants and investors will closely follow the developments in company to take informed investment decisions in the future.

Starbucks shares slide as preliminary results reveal decline in sales

Starbucks faced an unexpected jolt as workers from various locations staged a walkout during the much-anticipated red cup day. Starbucks, despite stating that most stores remained open, acknowledged a strike in a few dozen locations. the protest unfolded during what is typically one of the busiest promotional events for the company.

Starbucks faces strike amid red cup day promotional event | World Business Watch

Starbucks illegally fired six workers in New York state while pursuing a pushback against unions, a US National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) judge ruled. The judge said that the leading coffee chain&nbsp;committed "egregious and widespread" violations of federal labour law at its stores in cities of Buffalo and Rochester in the United States.&nbsp;

Starbucks has been told to rehire the workers it fired. The leading coffee chain has also been ordered&nbsp;to compensate others who were affected.

Starbucks, while clarifying its now legally sanctioned actions, said that what it did was&nbsp;lawful and in line with policies.

"We believe the decision and the remedies ordered are inappropriate given the record in this matter and are considering all options to obtain further legal review," Starbucks was quoted as saying by the BBC.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/starbucks-recalls-300000-units-of-its-infamous-vanilla-frappuccino-563826">Starbucks recalls 300,000 units of its infamous 'Vanilla Frappuccino'</a>

The NLRB is an independent federal agency in the United States. It has the legal mandate&nbsp;to safeguard employees' rights to unionise at their workplaces.

Michael Sanabria, a Starbucks barista in Buffalo, told media that the ruling was "such a massive win for us, and for the labour movement as a whole."

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Starbucks launches Olive Oil Coffee

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"The decision results from months of tireless organising by workers... demanding better working conditions in the face of historical, monumental, and now deemed illegal union-busting," Michelle Eisen, a barista at another Starbucks location in Buffalo, was quoted as saying by the BBC.

At around 270 Starbucks stores across the US, workers voted to join unions. Starbucks, however, opposed the move.

Starbucks has around 9,000 company-owned stores in the United States. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

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Starbucks illegally fired six workers in New York state while pursuing a pushback against unions, a US National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) judge ruled. The judge said that the leading coffee chain committed "egregious and widespread" violations of federal labour law at its stores in cities of Buffalo and Rochester in the United States.

Starbucks illegally fired six workers in New York state while pursuing a pushback against unions, a US National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) judge ruled. The judge said that the leading coffee chain committed "egregious and widespread" violations of federal labour law at its stores in cities of Buffalo and Rochester in the United States. Starbucks has been told to rehire the workers it fired. The leading coffee chain has also been ordered to compensate others who were affected. Starbucks, while clarifying its now legally sanctioned actions, said that what it did was lawful and in line with policies. "We believe the decision and the remedies ordered are inappropriate given the record in this matter and are considering all options to obtain further legal review," Starbucks was quoted as saying by the BBC. ALSO READ | Starbucks recalls 300,000 units of its infamous 'Vanilla Frappuccino' The NLRB is an independent federal agency in the United States. It has the legal mandate to safeguard employees' rights to unionise at their workplaces. Michael Sanabria, a Starbucks barista in Buffalo, told media that the ruling was "such a massive win for us, and for the labour movement as a whole." ALSO WATCH | Starbucks launches Olive Oil Coffee × "The decision results from months of tireless organising by workers... demanding better working conditions in the face of historical, monumental, and now deemed illegal union-busting," Michelle Eisen, a barista at another Starbucks location in Buffalo, was quoted as saying by the BBC. At around 270 Starbucks stores across the US, workers voted to join unions. Starbucks, however, opposed the move. Starbucks has around 9,000 company-owned stores in the United States. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Starbucks ordered to rehire workers it had fired in the US, compensate others affected

Starbucks has said it is not ‘in a formal sale process' for its UK business following media speculation. It comes after a media report said that the coffee chain is exploring a sale of the UK operations.

'Not in formal sales process in UK', says Starbucks

Popular American coffeehouse chain Starbucks has introduced masala chai and filter coffee to appeal to more Indian consumers, reported the Times of India. Masala chai and filter coffee are Indian varieties of tea and coffee beverages respectively. While masala chai is a tea beverage infused with spices and herbs, filter coffee is a creamy and frothy variant that has origins in South India.

As per TOI, the refreshed menu also includes assembled sandwiches, milkshakes, bite-sized snacks, and so forth. Starbucks will not be the first international food or beverage retail chain to go 'Indianisation'.

Also Read:&nbsp;J<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-jennifer-lopez-reveals-she-changed-her-lifestyle-habits-after-exhaustion-induced-panic-attack-496240">ennifer Lopez reveals she changed her lifestyle habits after exhaustion-induced panic attack</a>

McDonald's, for instance, introduced burgers like Chicken Maharaja Mac and McAloo Tikki to lure in Indian consumers used to desi palate. Similarly, Domino's also offers pizzas inspired by local dishes.

Sushant Dash, the CEO of Tata Starbucks that operates Starbucks in India told TOI, “The introduction of these things is to take it to the next level. We think this will help us to get new consumers to our fold. The trigger is to create new occasions for current consumers and also get a larger expanse of consumers to come in."

He added, "Some of the food items that we are launching as the starting point in a Starbucks become more affordable and attract a larger segment of consumers. The idea is to also learn, see the consumer acceptance across markets, see the nuances, check and adjust and then see where it goes.”

Popular American coffeehouse chain Starbucks has introduced masala chai and filter coffee to appeal to more Indian consumers, reported the Times of India. Masala chai and filter coffee are Indian varieties of tea and coffee beverages respectively.

Popular American coffeehouse chain Starbucks has introduced masala chai and filter coffee to appeal to more Indian consumers, reported the Times of India. Masala chai and filter coffee are Indian varieties of tea and coffee beverages respectively. While masala chai is a tea beverage infused with spices and herbs, filter coffee is a creamy and frothy variant that has origins in South India. As per TOI, the refreshed menu also includes assembled sandwiches, milkshakes, bite-sized snacks, and so forth. Starbucks will not be the first international food or beverage retail chain to go 'Indianisation'. Also Read: Jennifer Lopez reveals she changed her lifestyle habits after exhaustion-induced panic attack McDonald's, for instance, introduced burgers like Chicken Maharaja Mac and McAloo Tikki to lure in Indian consumers used to desi palate. Similarly, Domino's also offers pizzas inspired by local dishes. Sushant Dash, the CEO of Tata Starbucks that operates Starbucks in India told TOI, “The introduction of these things is to take it to the next level. We think this will help us to get new consumers to our fold. The trigger is to create new occasions for current consumers and also get a larger expanse of consumers to come in." He added, "Some of the food items that we are launching as the starting point in a Starbucks become more affordable and attract a larger segment of consumers. The idea is to also learn, see the consumer acceptance across markets, see the nuances, check and adjust and then see where it goes.”

Starbucks goes desi, to introduce masala chai and filter coffee

US coffee giant Starbucks has been caught serving food with expired ingredients and&nbsp;violating&nbsp;food safety checks in China.

A video of the company's employee replacing an expiration date sticker from a bottle of chocolate sauce has gone viral on China's Twitter-like platform, Weibo.

It was recorded as part of an undercover investigation by the Beijing News newspaper at two stores in the eastern Chinese city of Wuxi.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/starbucks-flush-with-customers-is-running-low-on-ingredients-390696">Also read |&nbsp;Starbucks, flush with customers, is running low on ingredients</a>

The video that has garnered 270 million views, has triggered outrage among several customers.

Meanwhile, a store was found selling out-of-date pastries and cacao nibs during the sale.

The company, which has over 5000 outlets in mainland China, has acknowledged its mistake and pledged to launch a full inspection of food safety standards across them all.

"We deeply apologise and will actively improve the practices. We'll closely cooperate with the investigation and request continuous monitoring from the public and media," it said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-strained-us-ties-xi-jinping-writes-to-former-starbucks-chairman-356731">Also read |&nbsp;Amid strained US ties, Xi Jinping writes to former Starbucks chairman</a>

Kevin Johnson, the chief executive officer of the company has said that its loyalty is unwavering.

After inspection conducted by the Wuxi's Market Supervision Administration, 15 out of 82 stores were found to be violating the set standards.

According to the firm's latest earnings report, China is the largest market for Starbucks outside the United States.

With encouragement by Chinese President Xi Jinping, consumer nationalism is on the rise.

Chinese consumers and media have become more aggressive about protecting customer rights and monitoring the behaviour of big brands, especially from overseas.

Some targets, such as Canadian winterwear brand Canada Goose which drew complaints about its refund policies, have been subjected to government reprimands.

(With inputs from agencies)

US coffee giant Starbucks has been caught serving food with expired ingredients and violating food safety checks in China. A video of the company's employee replacing an expiration date sticker from a bottle of chocolate sauce has gone viral on China's Twitter-like platform, Weibo.

US coffee giant Starbucks has been caught serving food with expired ingredients and violating food safety checks in China. A video of the company's employee replacing an expiration date sticker from a bottle of chocolate sauce has gone viral on China's Twitter-like platform, Weibo. It was recorded as part of an undercover investigation by the Beijing News newspaper at two stores in the eastern Chinese city of Wuxi. Also read | Starbucks, flush with customers, is running low on ingredients The video that has garnered 270 million views, has triggered outrage among several customers. Meanwhile, a store was found selling out-of-date pastries and cacao nibs during the sale. The company, which has over 5000 outlets in mainland China, has acknowledged its mistake and pledged to launch a full inspection of food safety standards across them all. "We deeply apologise and will actively improve the practices. We'll closely cooperate with the investigation and request continuous monitoring from the public and media," it said. Also read | Amid strained US ties, Xi Jinping writes to former Starbucks chairman Kevin Johnson, the chief executive officer of the company has said that its loyalty is unwavering. After inspection conducted by the Wuxi's Market Supervision Administration, 15 out of 82 stores were found to be violating the set standards. According to the firm's latest earnings report, China is the largest market for Starbucks outside the United States. With encouragement by Chinese President Xi Jinping, consumer nationalism is on the rise. Chinese consumers and media have become more aggressive about protecting customer rights and monitoring the behaviour of big brands, especially from overseas. Some targets, such as Canadian winterwear brand Canada Goose which drew complaints about its refund policies, have been subjected to government reprimands. (With inputs from agencies)

US coffee giant Starbucks caught serving food with expired ingredients in China

Tasha Leverette was in the mood for her favorite drink from Starbucks, an iced peach green-tea lemonade.

When she went through the drive-thru of her usual Starbucks in Atlanta three weeks ago, though, she was told they couldn’t make the drink because they didn’t have any peach-flavored juice. Shrugging it off, she drove to another store. And another. And another.

Each stop brought disappointment. None of the locations had the integral ingredient.

“I said to them, ‘This is the Peach State, right?’” said Leverette, 33, who owns a public relations firm. “It’s surprising because Starbucks always seems like it has anything and everything you need.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/starbucks-customer-gets-13000-compensation-over-slanty-eyes-drawing-on-cup-357889">Starbucks customer gets $13,000 compensation over 'slanty' eyes drawing on cup</a>

Across the country, customers and baristas are taking to social media to bemoan shortages not only of key ingredients for popular Starbucks drinks, like peach and guava juices, but also a lack of iced and cold-brew coffee, breakfast foods and cake pops, and even cups, lids and straws.

A video on TikTok this week featured what appeared to be a group of employees screaming in frustration over a list of ingredients the shop had run out of — including sweet cream, white mocha, mango dragon fruit and “every food item.” The caption also said that they were low on cold brew and the “will to live.”

Starbucks is hardly the only company struggling with supply issues. Earlier this spring, ketchup packets became hotter than GameStop stock. Automakers have slowed production because there are not enough computer chips for their vehicles. And homeowners are waiting weeks, if not months, for major kitchen appliances.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-xi-jinpings-letter-to-starbucks-356777">WATCH |</a>

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But Starbucks is running out of ingredients for Very Berry Hibiscus Refreshers and almond croissants after being one of the clear winners of the pandemic economy. During lockdowns, the coffee chain quickly shifted from its position as a “third place,” where people could linger to work or meet up for long chats, to focusing on frictionless transactions with customers ordering through mobile apps and drive-thrus. Earlier this year, company executives said Starbucks had seen a “full recovery” in U.S. sales, back to prepandemic levels.

In a statement, a spokeswoman for Starbucks said the company was experiencing “temporary supply shortages” of some of its products. She said the shortages varied by location, with some stores experiencing “outages of various items at the same time.” She added that the company was working with its vendors to restock the items as soon as possible, and that the supply-chain issues had not affected prices.

Although most people are familiar with the problems in the global supply chain to some extent, some Starbucks customers are still shocked — even incensed — by their inability to get their coffee exactly how they want it. Others laugh it off.

“I was told they couldn’t give me an extra shot of caramel because there was a national shortage,” Nicole Brashear, a 24-year-old pharmacy student at the University of Louisiana at Monroe, said of ordering an iced caramel macchiato with extra caramel drizzle in late May. “I just sort of laughed and was like, ‘Isn’t caramel just burnt sugar?’”

The problem for Starbucks is that it was never just selling a simple cup of coffee. For many, the experience of visiting the chain is a self-indulgent treat.

Customers learn the language regarding sizes and special drinks and then share their customized, 12-ingredient drink orders on social media. Many look forward to seasonal specials, like this summer’s Unicorn Cake Pop and Strawberry Funnel Cake Frappuccino, which are available for a limited time.

Orders are not barked out by number like other fast-food chains but rather are announced by name, suggesting customers are friends or are part of the Starbucks club, said Bryant Simon, a history professor at Temple University and author of “Everything But the Coffee: Learning About America From Starbucks.”

“Starbucks did something remarkable: taking a really ordinary product, coffee, and remaking it as an identifier of class, of culture, of discernment and of knowledge,” Simon said. “Starbucks is a way to communicate something about yourself to other people. While it has become more complicated over time, that drink still says, ‘I deserve a break in my life. I can afford to waste money on coffee.’”

There were earlier hints that supply issues could be bubbling up for Starbucks. In a late April call with Wall Street analysts, the chief executive of Starbucks, Kevin Johnson, voiced some concerns about companies that were part of its supply chain struggling to hire the staff they needed.

“I do anticipate we’ll do a little more to invest and help our supply chain partners, whether it’s staff that they need in manufacturing or staffing that they need for distribution and transportation,” Johnson said.

By late May, customers and baristas were reporting shortages of key ingredients or foods in stores all over the country.

Fred Rogers knew something was wrong right before Memorial Day weekend when he opened his Starbucks app and an alert flashed that the company was experiencing shortages of certain items. He wasn’t able to order his 3-year-old daughter her favorite sandwich — sausage, Cheddar and egg — from his nearby Starbucks in Burlington, New Jersey. His drink, a Caramel Ribbon Crunch Frappuccino, was also not available.

“I know if you go after a certain hour that they’re going to be out of some items,” said Rogers, a 33-year-old manufacturing specialist. “But this was 6:45 in the morning.”

Customers may be unhappy, but Simon said the paucity of drinks or food items would likely only increase demand. One of Starbucks’ biggest challenges in recent years has been overexpansion, meaning it has shed some of the uniqueness that once made it special.

“I’m sure there are a lot of heated conversations in Seattle right now about the supply-chain issues, but someone on the branding side is going to be chirping in that the scarcity may not be a bad thing,” Simon said.

Perhaps, but the issues could also be a risk if customers become too frustrated over not being able to get what they want, as they always have. When his daughter couldn’t get her favorite breakfast sandwich at Starbucks, Rogers took her to a nearby Chick-fil-A for breakfast.

And after driving to four Starbucks locations and not getting her favorite drink in late May, Leverette is no longer a regular customer.

“It’s disappointing,” she said. “You go, and you’re waiting in the drive-thru, and you’re only going for one thing and they don’t have what they need to make it.

“I just stopped even bothering to go.”

Tasha Leverette was in the mood for her favorite drink from Starbucks, an iced peach green-tea lemonade. When she went through the drive-thru of her usual Starbucks in Atlanta three weeks ago, though, she was told they couldn’t make the drink because they didn’t have any peach-flavored juice.

Tasha Leverette was in the mood for her favorite drink from Starbucks, an iced peach green-tea lemonade. When she went through the drive-thru of her usual Starbucks in Atlanta three weeks ago, though, she was told they couldn’t make the drink because they didn’t have any peach-flavored juice. Shrugging it off, she drove to another store. And another. And another. Each stop brought disappointment. None of the locations had the integral ingredient. “I said to them, ‘This is the Peach State, right?’” said Leverette, 33, who owns a public relations firm. “It’s surprising because Starbucks always seems like it has anything and everything you need.” Also read | Starbucks customer gets $13,000 compensation over 'slanty' eyes drawing on cup Across the country, customers and baristas are taking to social media to bemoan shortages not only of key ingredients for popular Starbucks drinks, like peach and guava juices, but also a lack of iced and cold-brew coffee, breakfast foods and cake pops, and even cups, lids and straws. A video on TikTok this week featured what appeared to be a group of employees screaming in frustration over a list of ingredients the shop had run out of — including sweet cream, white mocha, mango dragon fruit and “every food item.” The caption also said that they were low on cold brew and the “will to live.” Starbucks is hardly the only company struggling with supply issues. Earlier this spring, ketchup packets became hotter than GameStop stock. Automakers have slowed production because there are not enough computer chips for their vehicles. And homeowners are waiting weeks, if not months, for major kitchen appliances. WATCH | But Starbucks is running out of ingredients for Very Berry Hibiscus Refreshers and almond croissants after being one of the clear winners of the pandemic economy. During lockdowns, the coffee chain quickly shifted from its position as a “third place,” where people could linger to work or meet up for long chats, to focusing on frictionless transactions with customers ordering through mobile apps and drive-thrus. Earlier this year, company executives said Starbucks had seen a “full recovery” in U.S. sales, back to prepandemic levels. In a statement, a spokeswoman for Starbucks said the company was experiencing “temporary supply shortages” of some of its products. She said the shortages varied by location, with some stores experiencing “outages of various items at the same time.” She added that the company was working with its vendors to restock the items as soon as possible, and that the supply-chain issues had not affected prices. Although most people are familiar with the problems in the global supply chain to some extent, some Starbucks customers are still shocked — even incensed — by their inability to get their coffee exactly how they want it. Others laugh it off. “I was told they couldn’t give me an extra shot of caramel because there was a national shortage,” Nicole Brashear, a 24-year-old pharmacy student at the University of Louisiana at Monroe, said of ordering an iced caramel macchiato with extra caramel drizzle in late May. “I just sort of laughed and was like, ‘Isn’t caramel just burnt sugar?’” The problem for Starbucks is that it was never just selling a simple cup of coffee. For many, the experience of visiting the chain is a self-indulgent treat. Customers learn the language regarding sizes and special drinks and then share their customized, 12-ingredient drink orders on social media. Many look forward to seasonal specials, like this summer’s Unicorn Cake Pop and Strawberry Funnel Cake Frappuccino, which are available for a limited time. Orders are not barked out by number like other fast-food chains but rather are announced by name, suggesting customers are friends or are part of the Starbucks club, said Bryant Simon, a history professor at Temple University and author of “Everything But the Coffee: Learning About America From Starbucks.” “Starbucks did something remarkable: taking a really ordinary product, coffee, and remaking it as an identifier of class, of culture, of discernment and of knowledge,” Simon said. “Starbucks is a way to communicate something about yourself to other people. While it has become more complicated over time, that drink still says, ‘I deserve a break in my life. I can afford to waste money on coffee.’” There were earlier hints that supply issues could be bubbling up for Starbucks. In a late April call with Wall Street analysts, the chief executive of Starbucks, Kevin Johnson, voiced some concerns about companies that were part of its supply chain struggling to hire the staff they needed. “I do anticipate we’ll do a little more to invest and help our supply chain partners, whether it’s staff that they need in manufacturing or staffing that they need for distribution and transportation,” Johnson said. By late May, customers and baristas were reporting shortages of key ingredients or foods in stores all over the country. Fred Rogers knew something was wrong right before Memorial Day weekend when he opened his Starbucks app and an alert flashed that the company was experiencing shortages of certain items. He wasn’t able to order his 3-year-old daughter her favorite sandwich — sausage, Cheddar and egg — from his nearby Starbucks in Burlington, New Jersey. His drink, a Caramel Ribbon Crunch Frappuccino, was also not available. “I know if you go after a certain hour that they’re going to be out of some items,” said Rogers, a 33-year-old manufacturing specialist. “But this was 6:45 in the morning.” Customers may be unhappy, but Simon said the paucity of drinks or food items would likely only increase demand. One of Starbucks’ biggest challenges in recent years has been overexpansion, meaning it has shed some of the uniqueness that once made it special. “I’m sure there are a lot of heated conversations in Seattle right now about the supply-chain issues, but someone on the branding side is going to be chirping in that the scarcity may not be a bad thing,” Simon said. Perhaps, but the issues could also be a risk if customers become too frustrated over not being able to get what they want, as they always have. When his daughter couldn’t get her favorite breakfast sandwich at Starbucks, Rogers took her to a nearby Chick-fil-A for breakfast. And after driving to four Starbucks locations and not getting her favorite drink in late May, Leverette is no longer a regular customer. “It’s disappointing,” she said. “You go, and you’re waiting in the drive-thru, and you’re only going for one thing and they don’t have what they need to make it. “I just stopped even bothering to go.”

Starbucks, flush with customers, is running low on ingredients

A Starbucks cafe in Dublin has compensated an Irish customer of Thai heritage almost $13,000 for a drawing of ''slanty'' eyes on a cup made by an employee.

The incident took place when&nbsp;Suchavadee Foley ordered a chai matcha latte from&nbsp;Starbucks Tallaght but&nbsp;the cup in which it was served had a drawing of ''slanty eyes''.

The&nbsp;Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) found&nbsp;Foley had been a victim of racial abuse as it was "clear that the visual depiction relates to her race".

Adjudication officer of the commission&nbsp;Kevin Baneham said the incident ''is as offensive and as unimaginative as a 19th century Punch cartoon”.

The Dublin outlet said, "complainant had not been treated less favourably and others would have drawings composed of them".

The employee accused of making the drawing on the cup is from Brazil and she drew a smile because she thought the customer was glamorous.

A spokeswoman for Starbucks said it was "deeply sorry".

"We have no tolerance for discrimination of any kind at Starbucks," she said.

"We accept the adjudicator's conclusion that our partner did not intend to harass this customer and we have retrained the team at this store to ensure this does not take place again."

A Starbucks cafe in Dublin has compensated an Irish customer of Thai heritage almost $13,000 for a drawing of ''slanty'' eyes on a cup made by an employee. The incident took place when Suchavadee Foley ordered a chai matcha latte from Starbucks Tallaght but the cup in which it was served had a drawing of ''slanty eyes''.

A Starbucks cafe in Dublin has compensated an Irish customer of Thai heritage almost $13,000 for a drawing of ''slanty'' eyes on a cup made by an employee. The incident took place when Suchavadee Foley ordered a chai matcha latte from Starbucks Tallaght but the cup in which it was served had a drawing of ''slanty eyes''. The Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) found Foley had been a victim of racial abuse as it was "clear that the visual depiction relates to her race". Adjudication officer of the commission Kevin Baneham said the incident ''is as offensive and as unimaginative as a 19th century Punch cartoon”. The Dublin outlet said, "complainant had not been treated less favourably and others would have drawings composed of them". The employee accused of making the drawing on the cup is from Brazil and she drew a smile because she thought the customer was glamorous. A spokeswoman for Starbucks said it was "deeply sorry". "We have no tolerance for discrimination of any kind at Starbucks," she said. "We accept the adjudicator's conclusion that our partner did not intend to harass this customer and we have retrained the team at this store to ensure this does not take place again."

Starbucks customer gets $13,000 compensation over 'slanty' eyes drawing on cup

Post-coronavirus, everyone is being urged to wear face masks when stepping out in public to avoid spread of the novel coronavirus. Majority shops, cafes and restaurants are also urging customers to wear masks before entering the stores.

A Starbucks barista,&nbsp;Lenin Gutierrez, followed the same protocol during his shift at the Genesee Avenue, San Diego branch. He asked a customer to wear a face mask before purchasing her coffee. The customer,&nbsp;Amber Lynn Gilles, did not take the advice in good spirit and lashed out at him before he could even show her the company guidelines.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/starbucks-pauses-social-media-ads-to-fight-against-hate-speech-309238">Also read|&nbsp;Starbucks pauses social media ads to fight against 'hate speech'</a>

She further decided to click his picture, without his consent, and posted it on her Facebook page.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">div class="fb-post" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=10157012081506949&amp;id=601056948" data-show-text="true" data-width=""&gt;
<blockquote cite="https://developers.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=10157012081506949&amp;id=601056948" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore">
Meet lenen from Starbucks who refused to serve me cause I’m not wearing a mask. Next time I will wait for cops and bring a medical exemption.
Posted by <a href="#" role="button">Amber Lynn Gilles</a> on&nbsp;<a href="https://developers.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=10157012081506949&amp;id=601056948">Monday, June 22, 2020</a></blockquote>
</div>
</div>

<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a>

This post created a stir on Facebook as people came in support of Lenin. People created memes and sent factual information to Amber&nbsp;to show support with Lenin.

Some people even commented that they wish they could visit the Starbucks branch to appreciate Lenin through tips. This led to a GoFundMe page by a commentor Matt Cowan. The 26-year-old felt Lenin, whom he did not know personally, was being bullied for doing the right thing, and therefore he thought of helping Lenin through whatever way possible.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="fb-post" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/lenin.gutierrez.77/posts/3623979667616620" data-show-text="true" data-width="">
<blockquote cite="https://developers.facebook.com/lenin.gutierrez.77/posts/3623979667616620" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore">
I’ve received numerous messages asking for my side of the story. Since this seems to be the most popular thread I decided to post my personal experience here. Thank you all for the love and support.
Posted by <a href="https://www.facebook.com/lenin.gutierrez.77">Lenin Gutierrez</a> on&nbsp;<a href="https://developers.facebook.com/lenin.gutierrez.77/posts/3623979667616620">Wednesday, June 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The GoFundMe page titled&nbsp;"Tips for Lenin Standing Up To A San Diego Karen," became a huge hit in no time as it gave everyone a chance to send online/virtual tips to Lenin and show support. Matt, initially set up the goal amount to&nbsp;$1,000. However, Lenin has now received nearly&nbsp;$80,000 as virtual tip through this page.

Lenin, later, expalined his side of the story in a Facebook video, in which he explained the whole interaction he had with Amber and how she "flipped" him off. He also admitted that he did not intercept that she would post on Facebook and it would become such a big issue.

Lenin now hopes to help those in need and fulfill his passion of becoming a dancer with this donation.

Post-coronavirus, everyone is being urged to wear face masks when stepping out in public to avoid spread of the novel coronavirus. Majority shops, cafes and restaurants are also urging customers to wear masks before entering the stores.

Post-coronavirus, everyone is being urged to wear face masks when stepping out in public to avoid spread of the novel coronavirus. Majority shops, cafes and restaurants are also urging customers to wear masks before entering the stores. A Starbucks barista, Lenin Gutierrez, followed the same protocol during his shift at the Genesee Avenue, San Diego branch. He asked a customer to wear a face mask before purchasing her coffee. The customer, Amber Lynn Gilles, did not take the advice in good spirit and lashed out at him before he could even show her the company guidelines. Also read| Starbucks pauses social media ads to fight against 'hate speech' She further decided to click his picture, without his consent, and posted it on her Facebook page. div class="fb-post" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=10157012081506949&id=601056948" data-show-text="true" data-width=""> Meet lenen from Starbucks who refused to serve me cause I’m not wearing a mask. Next time I will wait for cops and bring a medical exemption. Posted by Amber Lynn Gilles on Monday, June 22, 2020 × This post created a stir on Facebook as people came in support of Lenin. People created memes and sent factual information to Amber to show support with Lenin. Some people even commented that they wish they could visit the Starbucks branch to appreciate Lenin through tips. This led to a GoFundMe page by a commentor Matt Cowan. The 26-year-old felt Lenin, whom he did not know personally, was being bullied for doing the right thing, and therefore he thought of helping Lenin through whatever way possible. I’ve received numerous messages asking for my side of the story. Since this seems to be the most popular thread I decided to post my personal experience here. Thank you all for the love and support. Posted by Lenin Gutierrez on Wednesday, June 24, 2020 × The GoFundMe page titled "Tips for Lenin Standing Up To A San Diego Karen," became a huge hit in no time as it gave everyone a chance to send online/virtual tips to Lenin and show support. Matt, initially set up the goal amount to $1,000. However, Lenin has now received nearly $80,000 as virtual tip through this page. Lenin, later, expalined his side of the story in a Facebook video, in which he explained the whole interaction he had with Amber and how she "flipped" him off. He also admitted that he did not intercept that she would post on Facebook and it would become such a big issue. Lenin now hopes to help those in need and fulfill his passion of becoming a dancer with this donation.

US: Starbucks barista gets $80,000 tip money for refusing service to customer without mask

To show solidarity with all minority, online and offline,&nbsp; communities, Starbucks has also&nbsp;announced a temporary stop to all social media advertisements to come up with a plan to "stop the spread of hate speech"

"We believe in bringing communities together, both in person and online, and we stand against hate speech," the Seattle-based coffee giant said in a statement.

"We believe more must be done to create welcoming and inclusive online communities, and we believe both business leaders and policy makers need to come together to affect real change."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coca-cola-says-pausing-social-media-advertising-308915">Also read:&nbsp;Coca-Cola says pausing social media advertising</a>

Few days after Unilever and Coco Cola announced a temporary social media advertisement ban, Starbucks too announced a temporary stop to the social media advertisements. However, Starbucks has cleared that this is not a boycott, but just a way to come up with a more inclusive approach.

"We will pause advertising on all social media platforms while we continue discussions internally, with our media partners and with civil rights organizations in the effort to stop the spread of hate speech," the statement continued.

While protests against racism took over the streets of the US, social media platforms, especially Facebook, were criticised for allowing, and indirectly spreading, hate messages towards minority groups on their platforms.

After this accusation, NAACP, a civil rights group that defends African Americans' interests,&nbsp;and the Anti-Defamation League, which fights anti-Semitism, called for an advertising boycott which was supported by Unilever and Coca Cola.

To show solidarity with all minority, online and offline, communities, Starbucks has also announced a temporary stop to all social media advertisements to come up with a plan to "stop the spread of hate speech" "We believe in bringing communities together, both in person and online, and we stand against hate speech," the Seattle-based coffee giant said in a statement.

To show solidarity with all minority, online and offline, communities, Starbucks has also announced a temporary stop to all social media advertisements to come up with a plan to "stop the spread of hate speech" "We believe in bringing communities together, both in person and online, and we stand against hate speech," the Seattle-based coffee giant said in a statement. "We believe more must be done to create welcoming and inclusive online communities, and we believe both business leaders and policy makers need to come together to affect real change." Also read: Coca-Cola says pausing social media advertising Few days after Unilever and Coco Cola announced a temporary social media advertisement ban, Starbucks too announced a temporary stop to the social media advertisements. However, Starbucks has cleared that this is not a boycott, but just a way to come up with a more inclusive approach. "We will pause advertising on all social media platforms while we continue discussions internally, with our media partners and with civil rights organizations in the effort to stop the spread of hate speech," the statement continued. While protests against racism took over the streets of the US, social media platforms, especially Facebook, were criticised for allowing, and indirectly spreading, hate messages towards minority groups on their platforms. After this accusation, NAACP, a civil rights group that defends African Americans' interests, and the Anti-Defamation League, which fights anti-Semitism, called for an advertising boycott which was supported by Unilever and Coca Cola.

Starbucks pauses social media ads to fight against 'hate speech'

Starbucks Corp said on Wednesday it expects current-quarter operating income to plunge by up to $2.2 billion, and sales to decline for the rest of the year even as nearly all its cafes have reopened following the easing of coronavirus lockdowns.

The company said it would permanently close about 400 stores in the Americas over the next 18 months and cut its planned new store openings by half to about 300 this fiscal year, signifying the lasting impact of the pandemic.

The world's largest coffee chain's shares fell nearly 4%, as it also forecast a bigger-than-expected current-quarter loss and an over $3 billion fall in revenue.

With the COVID-19 pandemic effectively putting a stop to dining out in most of the United States for weeks, Starbucks was forced to convert its cafes to pick-up or drive-through joints only.

The company said it would now speed up the opening of pick-up only stores, especially in urban areas, as health experts advise people to stick with social-distancing norms.

Starbucks projected an adjusted loss of about 55 cents to 70 cents per share for its third-quarter ending in June and said it expects US&nbsp;same-store sales to drop by up to 45%. Analysts were expecting a third-quarter loss of 16 cents per share, according to IBES data from Refinitiv.

However, declines are expected to slow towards the end of the year.

The company expects same-store sales in China to drop by 20% to 25%, slightly more optimistic than an earlier forecast of 25% to 35% fall.

Starbucks said it expects current-quarter operating income decline between $2 billion to $2.2 billion. It reported an operating income of $1.07 billion in the third quarter of last year.

Starbucks Corp said on Wednesday it expects current-quarter operating income to plunge by up to $2.2 billion, and sales to decline for the rest of the year even as nearly all its cafes have reopened following the easing of coronavirus lockdowns.

Starbucks Corp said on Wednesday it expects current-quarter operating income to plunge by up to $2.2 billion, and sales to decline for the rest of the year even as nearly all its cafes have reopened following the easing of coronavirus lockdowns. The company said it would permanently close about 400 stores in the Americas over the next 18 months and cut its planned new store openings by half to about 300 this fiscal year, signifying the lasting impact of the pandemic. The world's largest coffee chain's shares fell nearly 4%, as it also forecast a bigger-than-expected current-quarter loss and an over $3 billion fall in revenue. With the COVID-19 pandemic effectively putting a stop to dining out in most of the United States for weeks, Starbucks was forced to convert its cafes to pick-up or drive-through joints only. The company said it would now speed up the opening of pick-up only stores, especially in urban areas, as health experts advise people to stick with social-distancing norms. Starbucks projected an adjusted loss of about 55 cents to 70 cents per share for its third-quarter ending in June and said it expects US same-store sales to drop by up to 45%. Analysts were expecting a third-quarter loss of 16 cents per share, according to IBES data from Refinitiv. However, declines are expected to slow towards the end of the year. The company expects same-store sales in China to drop by 20% to 25%, slightly more optimistic than an earlier forecast of 25% to 35% fall. Starbucks said it expects current-quarter operating income decline between $2 billion to $2.2 billion. It reported an operating income of $1.07 billion in the third quarter of last year.

Starbucks expects over $2 billion drop in quarterly income due to covid-19

Chinese coffee&nbsp;brand&nbsp;Luckin coffee that was supposed to challenge the dominance of Starbucks in the coffee house business has&nbsp;collapsed during the coronavirus crisis.

The two-year-old coffee brand was supposed to be China's biggest success story.

It had operated only in China but had more coffee&nbsp;stores than Startbucks in the country.

A few months ago, it was valued at 12 billion dollars and was listed on Nasdaq.

However, the brand imploded due to its own fault rather than the coronavirus pandemic.

Luckin first opened its shops in Beijing and Shanghai in 2017 and&nbsp;expanded aggressively after that.

By the end of 2019, it had&nbsp;more than 4,500 stores in the country.

The company was well off and its future looked bright until a scandal threw a spanner in the works.

It happened when Jian Liu, the chief operating officer of Luckin, was been accused of cooking up the books.

Jiu and his subordinates had reportedly fabricated roughly 310 million dollars worth of transactions.

As a result, the company had to inform&nbsp;the exchanges that its second and third quarter results of last year cannot be relied upon.

The company which was a shining star of China is now facing&nbsp;the charges of fraud.

It has lost millions of dollars in value and its stock on Nasdaq which were&nbsp;worth a little more than 50 dollars in January, have&nbsp;now dropped to less than five dollars.&nbsp;

Chinese regulators have launched an investigation into Luckin. In an unusual statement, they said that they will work with Washington to find the root cause of the problem.

However, this appears&nbsp;easier said than done.

The downfall of Luckin has added&nbsp;to China's troubles with the United States as the Trump administration is investigating China's role in the coronavirus crisis.

US President Donald Trump has made his intentions clear. He wants to punish China on multiple fronts.

Some experts have suggested that China's access to American financial markets should be cut-off.&nbsp;The idea is to delink america's economy with china on multiple levels.

Trump's former chief strategist, Steve Bannon has said that the strategy is being reanalysed.

In a report that was put together by&nbsp;US&nbsp;officials last year in February,&nbsp;it was found that 156 Chinese companies were listed on American exchanges and they had a collectively market value of 1.2 trillion dollars. At least 11 of these listed companies are state owned.

Trump has often asked American businesses to move out of China.

According to media reports,&nbsp;lawmakers have discussed different bills that would make it harder for Americans to invest in chinese companies.&nbsp;

The fraud at Luckin has given US a chance to push for tougher rules against Chinese companies.

Chinese coffee brand Luckin coffee that was supposed to challenge the dominance of Starbucks in the coffee house business has collapsed during the coronavirus crisis.

Chinese coffee brand Luckin coffee that was supposed to challenge the dominance of Starbucks in the coffee house business has collapsed during the coronavirus crisis. The two-year-old coffee brand was supposed to be China's biggest success story. It had operated only in China but had more coffee stores than Startbucks in the country. A few months ago, it was valued at 12 billion dollars and was listed on Nasdaq. However, the brand imploded due to its own fault rather than the coronavirus pandemic. Luckin first opened its shops in Beijing and Shanghai in 2017 and expanded aggressively after that. By the end of 2019, it had more than 4,500 stores in the country. The company was well off and its future looked bright until a scandal threw a spanner in the works. It happened when Jian Liu, the chief operating officer of Luckin, was been accused of cooking up the books. Jiu and his subordinates had reportedly fabricated roughly 310 million dollars worth of transactions. As a result, the company had to inform the exchanges that its second and third quarter results of last year cannot be relied upon. The company which was a shining star of China is now facing the charges of fraud. It has lost millions of dollars in value and its stock on Nasdaq which were worth a little more than 50 dollars in January, have now dropped to less than five dollars. Chinese regulators have launched an investigation into Luckin. In an unusual statement, they said that they will work with Washington to find the root cause of the problem. However, this appears easier said than done. The downfall of Luckin has added to China's troubles with the United States as the Trump administration is investigating China's role in the coronavirus crisis. US President Donald Trump has made his intentions clear. He wants to punish China on multiple fronts. Some experts have suggested that China's access to American financial markets should be cut-off. The idea is to delink america's economy with china on multiple levels. Trump's former chief strategist, Steve Bannon has said that the strategy is being reanalysed. In a report that was put together by US officials last year in February, it was found that 156 Chinese companies were listed on American exchanges and they had a collectively market value of 1.2 trillion dollars. At least 11 of these listed companies are state owned. Trump has often asked American businesses to move out of China. According to media reports, lawmakers have discussed different bills that would make it harder for Americans to invest in chinese companies. The fraud at Luckin has given US a chance to push for tougher rules against Chinese companies.

How Starbucks' number one Chinese competitor imploded?

Consequences of the Coronavirus - Air travel is restricted, international business close down

Leading American coffee chain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/were-sorry-says-game-of-thrones-as-starbucks-makes-a-cameo-in-episode-4-216527">Starbucks </a>has opened a 'silent cafe' in the southern Chinese city of Guangzhou, in which nearly half of the staff are hearing-impaired, as part of an initiative to support the employment for people with disabilities.

Currently, Seattle-based Starbucks dominates China's coffee scene and has over 3,800 stores in the country.

"This might be the quietest Starbucks of over 3,800 shops on the Chinese mainland," said Leo Tsoi, chief operating officer of Starbucks China, was quoted as saying by the state-run Xinhua news agency.

Fourteen of the 30 staff at the shop, located in Yuexiu district and officially opened over the weekend, are hearing impaired. The shop has a specially-designed ordering system that allows people to place orders without saying a word.

For example, all the drinks and food are numbered to facilitate the ordering, and customers can also choose to write down their specific needs.

"We cannot hear you but would like to share a tasty coffee with you," said Chen Siting, who works at the store.

"I believe more people like me could find a career they are passionate about in the future."

Zhu Jieying, Starbucks' first coffee master with hearing loss in China, is among three of the hearing-impaired managers at the store. Having worked for Starbucks for seven years, Zhu hopes the store could be a platform for people with disabilities to show themselves and explore more possibilities in their life.

"We hope this could be an opportunity to promote employment equality," said Fan Yitao, vice chairman of the China Association of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing.

Starbucks is the single largest coffee chain in China.&nbsp;

However, Chinese coffee brand Luckin Coffee, established in 2017, has quickly become the second largest coffee chain in China after Starbucks.&nbsp;

This ambitious brand aims to have 4,500 stores throughout the country by the end of this year, surpassing Starbucks, which has over 3800 branches on the streets of 150 Chinese cities two decades after it arrived in China.&nbsp;

Leading American coffee chain Starbucks has opened a 'silent cafe' in the southern Chinese city of Guangzhou, in which nearly half of the staff are hearing-impaired, as part of an initiative to support the employment for people with disabilities.

Leading American coffee chain Starbucks has opened a 'silent cafe' in the southern Chinese city of Guangzhou, in which nearly half of the staff are hearing-impaired, as part of an initiative to support the employment for people with disabilities. Currently, Seattle-based Starbucks dominates China's coffee scene and has over 3,800 stores in the country. "This might be the quietest Starbucks of over 3,800 shops on the Chinese mainland," said Leo Tsoi, chief operating officer of Starbucks China, was quoted as saying by the state-run Xinhua news agency. Fourteen of the 30 staff at the shop, located in Yuexiu district and officially opened over the weekend, are hearing impaired. The shop has a specially-designed ordering system that allows people to place orders without saying a word. For example, all the drinks and food are numbered to facilitate the ordering, and customers can also choose to write down their specific needs. "We cannot hear you but would like to share a tasty coffee with you," said Chen Siting, who works at the store. "I believe more people like me could find a career they are passionate about in the future." Zhu Jieying, Starbucks' first coffee master with hearing loss in China, is among three of the hearing-impaired managers at the store. Having worked for Starbucks for seven years, Zhu hopes the store could be a platform for people with disabilities to show themselves and explore more possibilities in their life. "We hope this could be an opportunity to promote employment equality," said Fan Yitao, vice chairman of the China Association of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing. Starbucks is the single largest coffee chain in China. However, Chinese coffee brand Luckin Coffee, established in 2017, has quickly become the second largest coffee chain in China after Starbucks. This ambitious brand aims to have 4,500 stores throughout the country by the end of this year, surpassing Starbucks, which has over 3800 branches on the streets of 150 Chinese cities two decades after it arrived in China.

Starbucks opens 'silent cafe' in China