Simu Liu Backs Twrl Boba Tea’s Cultural Authenticity Stance, Sparking Investment Interest
Staff Editor Boba Tea Brand Twrl Catches Actor Simu Liu’s Attention After Cultural Appropriation Debate
In an unexpected turn of events, Twrl, a boba tea brand founded by Olivia Chen and Pauline Ang, has caught the eye of actor Simu Liu following their support of his stance on cultural appropriation. The founders, who had previously attempted to appear on “Shark Tank,” found themselves with a potential investment opportunity after posting a TikTok video backing Liu’s criticism of a boba brand on “Dragons’ Den.”
The controversy began when Liu, serving as a guest judge on “Dragons’ Den,” declined to invest in a boba brand due to what he perceived as a lack of cultural acknowledgment. This episode sparked a wider debate on the fine line between cultural appropriation and appreciation in business.
Boba tea, originating in Taiwan with historical roots in South America, has become a cultural staple with a significant presence in the United States. Its rise in mainstream culture has led to discussions on authenticity and cultural representation.
Twrl has positioned itself as a brand emphasizing cultural authenticity. The company collaborates with Asian diaspora artists and sources ingredients from Asia, aiming to educate consumers and promote cultural appreciation through its products.
Megan Ruan of Gold House Ventures underscores the importance of authenticity in marketing, encouraging entrepreneurs to share personal stories to connect with consumers. This approach aligns with Twrl’s business ethos and market strategy.
Currently, Twrl’s products are available in major retailers and online platforms. An investment could potentially help the brand expand its distribution and sales reach.
The aftermath of the “Dragons’ Den” episode saw the criticized boba brand issuing an apology following a public backlash. Liu and others have called for constructive dialogue rather than harassment. Chen, the co-founder of Twrl, advocates for positive change and increased opportunities for underrepresented founders in the industry.
As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how this unexpected connection between Twrl and Simu Liu will impact the brand’s future and the ongoing conversation about cultural representation in the business world.
