Have you ever headed into your local coffee shop in search of a latte and a place to relax for a few minutes while you catch up on some emails? I bet there’s been times when you couldn’t get a comfy seat – and if you needed a power outlet for a quick iPad recharge, forget it!
It seems that lately more and more folks are using their local coffee shops, Panera, Starbucks and the like as a permanent office. They come in bearing a laptop, cords and other devices, setting up shop for the whole day. Well, believe it or not, some coffee shops have had enough.
Coffee Shops are Speaking Up on “Laptop Hobos”
In the coffee shop world, folks who monopolize outlets and internet repeatedly have become known as “laptop hobos.” And in an effort to make a little room for regular customers, some shops have had to institute guidelines. Panera recently introduced a 30 minute wifi limit during the busy lunch hours, while other shops have had to block outlets in an effort to discourage laptop hobos from staying all day.
For most coffee shop owners, seeing their customers spend time together socializing, laughing and reading the paper is the perfect picture – and it’s high time customers have the opportunity to do just that.
What do you think of coffee shop owners limiting wifi and blocking power outlets?
