Is it possible to work in cafes without making a purchase? The online community weighs in
Is it possible to work in cafes without making a purchase? The online community weighs in
As businesses adapt to more flexible work arrangements, the traditional office setting is becoming less common. Many individuals now have the freedom to work from home or choose alternative locations. Cafes have emerged as a popular choice for this purpose, offering a variety of atmospheres to match your mood.
You can settle into a cozy spot, order a drink or snack, and enjoy your work while savoring some delightful treats. This seems perfectly acceptable. However, the pressing question remains: is it appropriate to occupy a cafe space without making a purchase?
This topic has ignited a lively discussion online following remarks from a Bangalore entrepreneur who defended the practice of working in cafés without making purchases, responding to criticism about taking up space without financial contribution.
Bhavya Arora, a Bangalore entrepreneur, took to Twitter to seek recommendations for cafés that align with specific criteria. “Looking for cafés in HSR layout that have 1. strong Wi-Fi 2. don’t require you to order 3. (optional) – comfy seating,” she wrote.
Her request drew significant backlash from social media users. The ongoing criticism prompted her to further clarify her stance, stating, “Why all the anger? Can’t a girl just work in an empty café without ordering? If there are people waiting for a table, I understand I should leave. But if it’s empty—WHAT’S THE ISSUE? Cafés are aware of this and are fine with it. I might not order today or tomorrow, but if I frequent the same café, I will eventually make a purchase. The café will recover its costs. Plus, I might bring friends along, and the group will definitely order.”
The post blew up fast, racking up more than two hundred thousand views and igniting a lively discussion all over the platform. Reactions were all over the place, with a lot of folks voicing concerns about the ethics of hanging out in a cafe without making a purchase.
HSR, a dynamic startup ecosystem in Bengaluru, buzzes with the enthusiasm of young professionals and entrepreneurs. It boasts a variety of cafes catering to the city’s tech-savvy community.
