The problem is not remote work, the problem is social fabric breaking down, causing people to take without giving in return. In the case of Starbucks, an anonymous corporation, little reciprocity is expected in the first place, but mom&pop coffee shops getting loads of freeloaders and squatters is an indicator of a larger problem in an area. Do these guys order one coffee in the morning and at lunch eat sandwiches they brought from home?
Also I wouldn't dare to take up space in a shop that's already short on space, nor would that be a particularly nice environment to work in.
I've got a local mom&pop coffee shop that I love, staff included, and obviously don't want to be a net negative to the place. Something would have to be seriously wrong with me if that ever changed and I'd hope someone would take corrective action by giving me a piece of their mind.
Kaibeezy · 5h ago
One of my favorite cafes has simple signage with an explanation, plus an owner/manager with the interest and confidence to enforce it. He’s really just replacing the empathy, self-awareness and social awareness that’s fading generally. It’s his prerogative: the scrambled eggs, toast and coffee are basically perfect; that’s where he puts his effort and what makes money; he’s tending his shop with care and dedication.
Corporate cafes are flaccid and indifferent. A pay toilet that hands out free coffee. Who even cares what a customer is up to?
Arnt · 4h ago
Would you leave if the café filled up while you were there?
Kaibeezy · 4h ago
At a local/mom-n-pop, if they asked, sure. At a corporate cafe no employee would care, so why should I?
In part, it’s a marginal utility problem. How do I know it’s not now peak crowded and will start to empty out if I wait 5 minutes. People can go somewhere else if it’s too crowded; I would have gone somewhere else; people with lower tolerance than me will leave before me; etc.
Also I wouldn't dare to take up space in a shop that's already short on space, nor would that be a particularly nice environment to work in.
I've got a local mom&pop coffee shop that I love, staff included, and obviously don't want to be a net negative to the place. Something would have to be seriously wrong with me if that ever changed and I'd hope someone would take corrective action by giving me a piece of their mind.
Corporate cafes are flaccid and indifferent. A pay toilet that hands out free coffee. Who even cares what a customer is up to?
In part, it’s a marginal utility problem. How do I know it’s not now peak crowded and will start to empty out if I wait 5 minutes. People can go somewhere else if it’s too crowded; I would have gone somewhere else; people with lower tolerance than me will leave before me; etc.