Starbucks Corporation, the renowned American multinational coffeehouse chain, has closed its branch in Beirut’s Raouche area, following the earlier shutdown of its location at ABC Verdun Mall. These closures, which leave both key areas without a Starbucks presence, highlight a noticeable decline in the company’s footprint in the Lebanese market.

A security officer at the Raouche branch confirmed that the space will soon be occupied by a new coffee brand.

Global Decline and Financial Struggles

The closures come amidst a global downturn in Starbucks’ sales, despite efforts to implement administrative changes aimed at improving performance. Similarly, Americana Restaurants, a major food service operator, announced a 48.2% drop in profits over the past year, reflecting broader financial difficulties faced by companies that have been the target of popular boycott campaigns.

Our work is not done!

A ceasefire is only the most important first step to end the genocide against the 2.3 million Palestinians in Gaza.

Without massive pressure, it may constitute a continuation of a less visible form of genocide that Israel and the US hope will provoke less… pic.twitter.com/46pzZVLUzd

— BDS movement (@BDSmovement) January 16, 2025

Boycotts as a Powerful Tool of Resistance

Mrs. Afifa Karaki, a prominent activist in the boycott movement against businesses linked to the occupation, underscored the increasing significance of popular boycotts. Speaking to Al-Manar, she stated, “Our opposition to colonialism is a principled stance and an ongoing battle that will only end with the eradication of this colonial entity.”

Mrs. Karaki referenced recent Israeli economic reports warning of a “spiral collapse,” citing the exit of over 40,000 companies from the market and the suspension of numerous projects. She argued that continued global corporate support for the Zionist economy amounts to “artificial life support for a dying system.”

“Boycotts are not merely an economic tool; they embody widespread popular rejection of any form of normalization or support for the occupation,” she added.

Tangible Results of Boycott Campaigns

Mrs. Karaki highlighted the tangible impact of global economic boycotts in reducing support for the occupation. For example, she noted that Puma ended its sponsorship of the Israeli Football Association after sustained boycott efforts.

She also reassured that local economies can remain resilient, as domestic investors are capable of finding alternatives that strengthen local markets without supporting entities complicit in violence and oppression.

Call to Intensify Boycott Efforts

Mrs. Karaki concluded by urging greater efforts to support boycott campaigns. She emphasized that “boycotts are a vital form of resistance, no less important than any other form of struggle.” She called for heightened public awareness and stronger community support to challenge systems and corporations that directly or indirectly enable the occupation.

To view the top 50 companies supporting Zionism, click here.

Source: Al-Manar Website