Bangkok--9 Aug--Hill+Knowlton Strategies
To mark its 20th Anniversary, Starbucks Thailand is partnering with The Support Arts and Crafts International Centre of Thailand (SACICT) and the heirs of Master Wirat Pinsuwan, a member of the Master Artisans of Thailand, in creating a heritage "Benjarong" coffee mug collection. The aim is to honor the exquisite Thai craft and promote the fine art internationally. The collection will be available for purchase at Starbucks from today onwards*.
"Starbucks is delighted to play a role in promoting Thai craftsmanship through our Benjarong collection. The mugs are available in different designs for customers to choose and collect as we celebrate our 20th anniversary. One of the designs is "Ayutthaya" with a beautiful pattern that remains popular today. It's mostly composed of a flower or lotus pattern then blended with the delicate Thai pattern," said Nednapa Srisamai, managing director, Starbucks Coffee (Thailand).
Benjarong porcelain, considered an advanced handicraft, was first produced in China late in the 20th century of the Buddhist calendar, a period that aligns with Thai's Ayutthaya Kingdom. In the past, the use of Benjarong porcelain was limited to the royal family and nobility. The name Benjarong is derived from the Pali word "Benja" meaning "five" and the Sanskrit word "rong" or "color". Combined, the words mean five colors, namely red, yellow, green, blue and white. On many occasions, deep purple, a brownish hue and pure gold are also used.
The painting process of Benjarong requires an artisan with experience and finesse since the painting of each line and the coloring steps are done by hand. The patterns have evolved and grown as the cultural beliefs and values have shifted from the Ayutthaya Kingdom to the present day and are also inspired by nature.
Samples of Starbucks Benjarong Ayutthaya Collection
11.55 oz Ceramic mug with "Prajam Yam" Benjarong pattern and encircling vines and flowers on a deep orange background. For hot and cold drinks. Price 1,900 THB.
11.55 oz Ceramic mug with Chrysanthemum flower Benjarong pattern, intricately blended with delicate Thai design on a deep orange background. For hot and cold drinks. Price 1,900 THB.
Each Benjarong mug is beautifully presented in its special Starbucks package and comes with a pamphlet dedicated to the story behind each product, making them perfect as collectibles and gifts for special occasions.
*Available at selected Starbucks stores
About Starbucks
Since 1971, Starbucks Coffee Company has been committed to ethically sourcing and roasting the highest quality Arabica coffee in the world. Today, with stores around the globe, the company is the premier roaster and retailer of specialty coffee worldwide. Through our unwavering commitment to excellence and our guiding principles, we bring the unique Starbucks Experience to life for every customer through every cup. To share in the experience, please visit us in our stores or online at www.starbucks.com.
About Starbucks Coffee Thailand
Starbucks Coffee (Thailand) Co., Ltd. was founded in Thailand in July 1998. Starbucks Coffee (Thailand) now operates 344 retail locations throughout the Kingdom of Thailand. The company is dedicated to making the Starbucks Experience a rewarding part of the day for all its customers in Thailand, while contributing positively to the community through its sponsorship of sustainable coffee production with Thai hill tribes under the name of Muan Jai(R) (Thai blended coffee). Starbucks always initiates handcrafted beverages one at a time and invites customers to personalize their beverages. Starbucks partners strive to provide the best coffee experience and are always ready to share with customers background on Starbucks coffee heritage. For further information, please visit http://www.starbucks.co.th