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Another Starbucks first
(Shanghai Daily)
Updated: 2004-10-12 09:54  Shanghai East Hospital will be the first medical facility in the
country to open a Starbucks. It will open on October 20.
"We want to
create a more relaxed and cozy place for patients, family members and our
medical staff," said Liu Zhongmin, president of Shanghai East.
"Keeping
in line with international standards means not only medical expertise, but also
service concepts."
The coffee chain also wants to expand into this new
area. "We set up the outlet, as there is demand for our services. We may
introduce our cafe to more medical facilities if this works well," said Summer
Ji, a spokeswoman for Starbucks.
Many patients and visitors like the
idea. "It is good to rest in such a nice place when visiting the hospital, which
always feels stiff and cold," said Zhu Li, a patient.
"A cup of warm coffee and some
sweets can comfort me and release my anxiety."
However, some
are worried about hygiene and safety issues.
"Hospitals house all kinds
of viruses and infectious diseases. I am not sure whether the person sitting
beside me is seriously sick," said a patient surnamed Zhang.
Liu said
people need not worry too much since customers at any cafe could be sick.
"Different from other outlets, we won't use coffee mugs but only use
disposable cups to prevent diseases from spreading."
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