The past few months have been a tough time for Starbucks Malaysia as they are still facing a boycott from Malaysian consumers over the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestine.
Tan Sri Vincent Tan, however, believes that there is no need for the boycott movement.
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“It’s not only hurting the brand but it’s also not effective. Israel will not change their mind just because of the ongoing boycott.”
“Starbucks Malaysia has zero foreign ties”
In a conversation with Sin Chew, Tan Sri Vincent Tan said that sooner or later, Malaysians will realise that the ongoing boycott movement is not necessary, especially after knowing that Starbucks Malaysia has zero foreign ties.
“Starbucks Malaysia is not owned by the American coffee chain and it’s just a franchise. It’s owned by Berjaya Food, a Malaysian company.”
If that does not convince you, then maybe the workspace culture will. According to Tan Sri Vincent Tan, ALL employees in the HQ are Malaysians, and 85% of the employees are Muslims.
“Starbucks in some countries are partially owned by the American coffee chain, but not the ones in Malaysia,” Vincent added.
“Boycott wave is slowing down”
When it comes to the future performance of the organisation, Tan Sri Vincent Tan was honest about what he thought.
The boycott has gradually slowed down and the company’s performance will improve in the coming quarters. To Vincent, Malaysian consumers are getting more realistic.
“On social media, Instagram, for instance, we saw royal family members and VIPs visiting Starbucks.”
Vincent reminded the public that there is no need to boycott and hurt a Malaysian company, highlighting that “it will not benefit anyone.”
“If we really want to boycott Israel or some American products, there is a lot more products out there to boycott.”
Earlier, Starbucks Malaysia also released an official statement and highlighted that they do not condone any violence, as well as expressed their sympathy for the victims of war in the ongoing conflict.
Fellow Malaysian consumers, do you think it’s time we put an end to the boycott movement and think about the affected employees? To those who are actively boycotting, what do you think of Vincent’s take on this?
Also read: “Positive outlook” – Starbucks M’sia’s Parent Company Faces RM42 MILLION Loss Due to Recent Boycott
