Core Viewpoint - Starbucks is facing controversy in China due to reports of employees being pressured to purchase mooncakes to meet sales targets, leading to concerns about consumer rights and employee treatment [1][5][9]. Group 1: Employee Sales Pressure - Employees claim they are required to meet sales targets of 25 mooncakes for full-time staff and 15 for part-time staff, with unsold items needing to be purchased out of pocket [4][6]. - Some employees have reported spending significant amounts, with one claiming to have "fronted" 15 boxes costing over 3000 yuan [4][5]. - The pressure to sell mooncakes appears to vary by store manager, with some employees stating their managers do not enforce sales targets [4][6]. Group 2: Company Response - Starbucks China has stated that it does not allow employees to purchase mooncakes to meet sales targets and is investigating the claims made by employees [1][5]. - The company encourages customers to buy mooncakes through official channels to protect their consumer rights [5]. Group 3: Market Context - Starbucks has been selling mooncakes in China since 2005 as part of its localization strategy, using them for brand marketing [6]. - Recent financial reports indicate a slight recovery in same-store sales in China, with a 2% year-over-year increase, although average transaction value has decreased by 4% [8]. - Despite some recovery, Starbucks continues to face challenges in the Chinese market, leading to speculation about potential divestment of its Chinese operations [9].