One of the main reasons for the decline in sales Starbucks are boycottswhich take place in USA and on Middle East. In the Middle East, they are related to the Israel-Hamas conflict that has been ongoing for several months. In the USA, however, they are the result of company behavior towards trade unions.
In October 2022, Starbucks initiated legal action against Workers United, a labor union that is trying to organize Starbucks workers. So trade unionists organized a nationwide boycott of the coffee chain.
Disinformation and fake news?
Starbucks claims that this ostracism is based on “disinformation” on social media. The company emphasizes that it is engaged in dialogue with employees and respects the right to form trade unions.
In addition, Starbucks’ performance is also affected by the weakening economy. IN USA inflation is at its highest level in 40 years and consumers are becoming more and more frugal. Despite this, the company says it is still in good financial shape and expects sales to increase in the future.
Not just Starbucks?
Boycotting companies because of their political views or activities is becoming an increasingly common phenomenon. Companies must be aware of these risks and respond to them appropriately. Recently he has been boycotted himself McDonald’s. Interestingly, in this case the boycotts are also related to the conflict in the Middle East. Some consumers believe the company isn’t doing enough to condemn violence in the region.
In the case of a famous beer producer Bud Light customer protests were caused by the company’s marketing partnership with Dylan Mulvaneytransgender influencer. Some consumers argued that the company should not promote a transgender person because it is inconsistent with religious and conservative values.
All these actions have a negative impact on the financial results of companies. Starbucks shares fell 11%. McDonald’s also saw sales decline, and its stock price fell 8 percent. Bud Light saw sales drop 14%.
