Daily Times

Starbucks’ recent announcement to hire 10,000 refugees globally has ignited furious response from Trump supporters, with the tag ‘#BoycottStarbucks’ trending worldwide.

Though, more people tweeted humorously, saying that ‘this boycott might just help them get their coffees quickly’. This trend was started by Trump supporters showing frustration over the company’s decision, but a lot of people also showed support towards the internationally recognised franchise.

Responding to United States (US) President Donald Trump’s recent immigration ban, Starbucks has pledged to hire 10,000 refugees globally over the next five years.

In an open letter to the staff, Starbucks Chief Executive Howard Schultz said that the president’s order had caused “confusion, surprise and opposition.”

“Recruitment will begin in the US and people who have served or supported the military will be focus on,” he said.

Schultz is the latest US corporate chief to criticise the ‘Muslim ban.’

Silicon Valley heavyweights, including Facebook, Google and Tesla, have made public statements, while Airbnb is offering free accommodation to people affected by the travel restrictions and unable to get into the US.

President Trump, on Friday, signed an executive order, barring immigrants from seven majority-Muslim countries for a minimum of 90 days, and suspending the US refugee program for 120 days.

Schultz said that he wrote to employees with ‘deep concern, a heavy heart and a resolute promise’, adding he wanted them to know that the firm would neither stand by, nor stand silent, as the uncertainty around the new administration’s actions grows with each passing day.

“The recruitment pledge was a concerted effort to welcome and seek opportunities for those fleeing war, violence, persecution and discrimination,” he said.

Starbucks operates more than 25,000 stores in 75 countries worldwide.