Core Points - A recent social media post questioned Starbucks' pricing of Evian water at 22 yuan per bottle, claiming "nobody buys it," which sparked widespread discussion [1] - On e-commerce platforms, Evian water is priced around 5 to 7 yuan per bottle, highlighting a significant price discrepancy [1] Group 1 - A Starbucks employee in Shanghai stated that the Evian water sells well, particularly among customers who prefer it over coffee during business meetings [3] - The employee attributed the price difference to varying supply channels, asserting that the 22 yuan price has been consistent and that there is a steady demand for it [3] - A lawyer noted that the pricing is publicly disclosed to consumers and does not involve coercion, categorizing it as a market behavior [3] Group 2 - Some netizens perceive the purchase of high-priced bottled water as a sign of vanity, while others argue that Starbucks' premium pricing strategy aims to enhance brand value [3] - Professor Mei Zhigang from Central China Normal University commented that both views are inappropriate, emphasizing that Starbucks has a specific product positioning and that consumer choices reflect individual motivations and payment capabilities [3]

Core Viewpoint - The controversy surrounding Starbucks selling Evian bottled water at a price of 22 yuan per bottle, significantly higher than the online price of 5 to 7 yuan, has sparked discussions about pricing strategies and consumer behavior [1][4]. Group 1: Pricing Strategy - Starbucks' pricing for Evian water is confirmed to be 22 yuan per bottle at a Guangzhou location, which is notably higher than the market price [1]. - A staff member from a Starbucks store in Shanghai indicated that the bottled water sells well, particularly among customers who prefer it over coffee during business meetings [3]. Group 2: Consumer Behavior and Market Dynamics - The price difference is attributed to varying procurement channels, and the high price has been consistent, with ongoing customer purchases [4]. - Legal perspectives suggest that the pricing is transparent to consumers and does not involve coercion, categorizing it as a market behavior [4]. - Opinions among consumers vary, with some viewing the purchase of expensive bottled water as a sign of vanity, while others believe that Starbucks' pricing strategy enhances brand value [4]. - A professor from Central China Normal University argues against labeling consumer choices, emphasizing that Starbucks has a specific product positioning that caters to diverse consumer motivations and payment capabilities [4].