Chinese Media Star Gives Starbucks a Jolt

When Starbucks coffee shop opened in the Forbidden City seven years ago, China was striving to join the international economic community. Now, the country’s citizens are divided about adopting international trends versus preserving cultural and historical heritage. Rui Chenggang, a television anchor, wrote a blog entry protesting a Starbucks in the Forbidden City, claiming that it “trampled over Chinese culture.” Chinese readers responded with agreement and pressured the government to close the store. The Chinese government gave Starbucks the option of selling coffee under the Forbidden City brand, but the company declined. Some government and media onlookers took immediate notice of the power behind one man’s complaint, chiding him for “ranting.” Rui claims that he does not oppose international trade or foreign investment and that he likes the coffee. Still, with online communication, he touched a nerve in a nation that does not allow dissent. Rui points out that any powerful nation reaches a point where its citizens must engage in self-reflection, both determining their identity and future goals. – YaleGlobal