Construction of Lan Yu’s Little 7 in full swing; township office: outsiders are too sensitive

Reported by Chen Ziying / Taipei

The debate over whether 7-Eleven should enter Orchid Island has sparked discussions across various sectors,Celebrity Yu Shengand writer Liu Kexiang have both expressed concerns that the presence of a convenience store could negatively impact the pristine and beautiful Orchid Island.It is understood that the 7-Eleven store located in front of the harbor in Yeyou Village, Orchid Island, is currently under intense construction and is expected to open in August. Unexpectedly, this has stirred public controversy. In response, Zhong Maxiong, secretary of the Orchid Island Township Office, stated: “The future impacts may not necessarily be negative; outsiders are too sensitive.”


▲ The 7-Eleven on Orchid Island has sparked public controversy and is still under construction. The photo was taken on July 15. (Photo / Provided by Kevin)

Zhong Maxiong, a local himself, believes that the feelings of non-local outsiders and residents toward 7-Eleven are naturally very different. However, commenting before the store even opens is overly sensitive. Moreover, the 7-Eleven store on Orchid Island is not solely for outsiders but represents a collaboration between the enterprise and locals. The township office takes a conservative stance on whether the presence is right or wrong.He said: “Private enterprises hold the operating rights, and the impact of 7-Eleven’s entry into Orchid Island still needs time to reveal itself.” Zhong Maxiong also mentioned that if the opening of 7-Eleven indeed leads to negative effects impacting residents and tourists, the township office will actively address and review countermeasures.

A local resident, Mr. Lin, also told reporters: “What does it matter to Taiwanese people whether Orchid Island has a 7-Eleven or not?” “Would Taiwanese people even be willing to go back to old-fashioned grocery stores?”Mr. Lin further stated that while there is indeed opposition to the upcoming 7-Eleven on Orchid Island, most people still believe that “the benefits outweigh the drawbacks,” as 7-Eleven will bring convenient services such as mailing and receiving packages for residents. Additionally, the 7-Eleven is located in the bustling western harbor area, where there are already agricultural cooperative supermarkets and the like. The addition of 7-Eleven won’t change much. He said: “Homestays and hotels have all moved in, so why can’t 7-Eleven come?” Some locals also believe it could create job opportunities, which is not a bad thing. However, Mr. Lin pointed out that the tea eggs sold at 7-Eleven might affect the business of small vendors.

 
▲ The 7-Eleven on Orchid Island is expected to open in August. (Photo / Provided by Kevin)