Chinese milk tea chain sparks heated debate over ‘military-style’ onboarding programme

A Chinese milk tea chain has ignited a debate about workplace culture and employee autonomy after reports of its military-style onboarding training garnered public criticism. Frontline employees at Chayanyuese, also known as Modern China Tea Shop, recently voiced their concerns on mainland social media, alleging that the company’s “Cornerstone” induction programme infringes on personal boundaries. Headquartered in Hunan province, Chayanyuese is one of China’s most recognisable milk tea brands,...