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A promotional notice is displayed on a table at a Paik’s Coffee outlet operated by Theborn Korea in Seoul on May 10, advertising a discount event offering iced and hot Americanos for KRW 500. (Photo = Yonhap News Agency) |
[Alpha Biz= Kim Jisun] Weekly transaction value at Starbucks Korea fell by more than 25% in the week following the “Tank Day” controversy, signaling a sharp decline in consumer sentiment.
According to mobile data from IGAWorks, Starbucks Korea recorded KRW 23.69 billion in weekly payments from May 18 to 24, down 26.3% from KRW 32.16 billion in the previous week.
While rival Mega MGC Coffee also saw a 6% decline over the same period, Starbucks’ drop was significantly steeper, suggesting a direct impact from the controversy. Industry experts noted that the backlash—particularly in regions sensitive to the issue—has weighed heavily on consumer trust.
Despite maintaining its market leadership prior to the incident, Starbucks now faces increased competitive pressure as lower-priced coffee chains continue to gain traction.
Alphabiz Reporter Kim Jisun(stockmk2020@alphabiz.co.kr)
