The video discusses the success and "crimes" of Starbucks, a global coffee chain with over 35,000 branches. The company's profits are estimated at $35.9 billion, and it has become a cultural phenomenon. However, the video highlights the dark side of Starbucks, including its involvement in child labor, exploitation of workers in Central Africa, and contribution to drought in countries like Ethiopia.
The video also touches on Starbucks' relationship with Israel, including its support for the Zionist movement and its provision of coffee to American soldiers in Afghanistan and Iraq. The company has been accused of covering up these connections due to boycotts and public relations efforts.
Despite these controversies, the video notes that Starbucks has become a successful brand, with a strong marketing strategy and a loyal customer base. The company's ability to create a luxurious experience and its expertise in choosing locations have contributed to its success.
The video concludes by highlighting the challenges of boycotting Starbucks, given its widespread presence and influence. However, the narrator encourages viewers to support local coffee shops and to be aware of the company's practices and connections.
Here are the key facts extracted from the text:
1. Starbucks made $35 billion and $976 million in profits last year.
2. Starbucks has 3,571 branches around the world.
3. Starbucks was founded by Jordan Booker in 1971.
4. Howard Schultz, a Jewish American and strong supporter of Zionism, joined Starbucks and transformed it into the coffee shop experience we know today.
5. Schultz was inspired by Italy's coffee culture and introduced espresso-based drinks to Starbucks.
6. Schultz bought Starbucks from its original owners in 1987 for $3.8 million.
7. Starbucks expanded globally, opening its first international branches in Japan, Britain, and the Philippines in 1998.
8. Today, Starbucks has over 35,000 branches worldwide.
9. Despite its global presence, Starbucks does not have a single branch in Israel.
10. Starbucks has been accused of using child labor in its coffee supply chain, particularly in Ethiopia and Uganda.
11. Children as young as 8 years old work in coffee plantations to produce coffee for Starbucks.
12. A cup of latte from Starbucks costs around $3, but a child in Ethiopia works 16 hours to earn that amount.
13. Starbucks has been criticized for its water usage, particularly in countries like Ethiopia, where 50% of the population lacks access to clean water.
14. A single cup of coffee requires around 132 liters of water to produce.
15. Starbucks has been involved in several controversies, including providing coffee to American soldiers in Afghanistan and Iraq.
16. Howard Schultz has been a vocal supporter of Israel and has invested $1.7 billion in an Israeli information security company.
17. Starbucks has been accused of covering up its ties to Israel and Zionism due to boycotts and public backlash.
18. The company has a strong public relations team that aims to protect its brand image and sales.
19. Starbucks has been shown to have a positive impact on real estate values, with properties near Starbucks branches increasing in value by up to 96%.
20. The Starbucks app has over $1.6 billion in customer funds, which can only be spent on Starbucks products.