TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Costco expressed gratitude on Sunday (Dec. 15) for the valuable suggestions it received, demonstrating its commitment to inclusivity and cultural sensitivity. After receiving feedback from the public, the company updated its website to reflect the term "Lunar New Year."
The Heart of BKK (盤谷唯一勸世吵架王), a social media influencer, highlighted the issue on Facebook. He pointed out that Costco's website initially used "Chinese New Year" in its English descriptions for holiday meal sets. He emailed the company, noting that many Asian countries celebrate the Lunar New Year, urging multinational companies to choose their words carefully.
Costco swiftly responded to the feedback, changing the term on its website within seven hours. The Heart of BKK praised Costco for its prompt action. The company reiterated its openness to suggestions from its members and the public, emphasizing that such feedback helps it provide quality service.
The debate over using "Lunar New Year" or "Chinese New Year" has surfaced frequently. This ongoing discussion reflects deeper cultural identity issues. Some argue that "Lunar New Year" is a more culturally inclusive term for diverse ethnic groups, while others feel it diminishes the holiday's Chinese origins.