Part 10/14:
Even coffee brands are feeling the pressure. Starbucks, which opened its first store in Taiwan in 2013, has announced closures of longstanding outlets in Taiwan, with some shutting after more than a decade of operation. The rapid turnover of many small coffee shops—most closing within three to six months—further exemplifies the bleak outlook for casual dining and specialty cafes.
International fast-food chains such as KFC and Burger King are also witnessing their Chinese presences diminish. Since mid-2024, the number of Burger King stores has decreased significantly, with ongoing closures across major cities. The trend hints at a broader pattern of inventory reduction driven by declining consumer demand and operational challenges.