The podcast discusses the impact of boycott movements in the Middle East against big foreign brands due to their perceived support for Israel. It explores the decline in sales, PR challenges, and the response of these brands. The success of local brands and cafe chains amidst the boycotts is also showcased. The consequences of ongoing boycott campaigns on global brands in the region and the escalating conflict in Gaza are discussed.
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Quick takeaways
Boycott movements in the Middle East and Muslim nations are targeting global brands due to their perceived support of Israel, causing protests, declining sales, and business impact.
Consumers in the Middle East are shifting their spending habits, boycotting Western brands and opting for local alternatives to support Palestine, reflecting a growing awareness of ethical considerations and demands for transparency from brands.
Deep dives
Impact of Boycott Calls on Global Brands
Boycott calls targeting global brands like McDonald's, Starbucks, and Coca-Cola have emerged in response to their perceived support of Israel in the Israel-Hamas war. These companies have faced protests, boycotts, and declining sales in the Middle East. The Palestinian-led boycott divestment sanctions movement has been a major driver behind the boycotts, accusing these companies of complicity in human rights violations. While companies have denied these claims and emphasized their political neutrality, boycotts have caused significant business impact, with restaurants and supermarkets deserted and sales declining for some major brands.
Shift in Consumer Behavior and Empowerment
Consumers in the Middle East are changing their spending habits, opting for local alternatives and boycotting Western brands. This shift is driven by a desire to support Palestine and protest against Western governments' support for Israel. Social media campaigns have prompted shoppers to seek out local products, leading to deserted branches of global fast-food chains and increased demand for local brands. Consumers view the boycott as a way to make their voices heard and exert control over their spending. This shift also reflects a growing awareness of ethical considerations and demands for transparency and ethical standards from the brands they support.
Opportunities for Local Brands and Potential Long-term Effects
The boycotts against global brands have created opportunities for local businesses in the Middle East. Local soda makers, like Pierce Patis, have seen a significant boost in sales as consumers opt for alternatives to boycotted Western brands. Coffee shops and restaurants have also experienced increased demand, as consumers boycott Starbucks and turn to local competitors. This consumer shift is viewed as a lasting trend by business owners and investors, and companies are developing their own alternatives to boycotted products. The long-term effects of these boycott campaigns are uncertain, but with the ongoing conflict and digital visibility of the boycott movement, erasing the collective memory of these events may prove challenging for boycotted brands.
Many shoppers in the Middle East, as well as in Muslim nations like Pakistan are shunning big foreign brands, driven by a wellspring of anger against Western countries for their support of Israel during the war with Hamas. In this special podcast, Bloomberg reporters Leen Al-Rashdan and Salma El Wardany discuss the effects of the boycott movements, speak to those who've changed their spending habits, and to businesses who've seen an increase in sales as consumers make the switch to more local brands. Hosted by Daybreak Europe's Stephen Carroll.
For more from the team, check out the Daybreak Europe Podcast. Every episode delivers the day's top stories, with context, in just 15 minutes. Available every morning by 7am GMT in your feed.