Like most countries, work-from-home employees in South Korea also often visit Starbucks to work, but as it turns out, they turn the cafe into a mini home office for themselves. This habit of office workers had made it difficult for the global coffee house to make space for the other guests; hence, Starbucks in South Korea has now banned “bulky items” like computers and printers. Keep reading to know more about it.
Starbucks In South Korea Bans Bulky Items
People in South Korea often love to sit in cafes and coffeehouses to complete their work. This behaviour has led the majority of WFH employees to turn Starbucks into an office. According to an NDTV report, they would often carry multiple monitors, printers and cubicle-style dividers to the outlet while working, making it difficult to accommodate other guests. As a result, the brand in South Korea has put a ban on carrying these bulky items indoors, and only laptops, tablets, and mobile phones are allowed.
The company introduced this new rule with a specific group in mind, known in South Korea as “cagongjok.” These usually include students and office professionals who visit a cafe with a proper study or office setup and spend hours occupying the same. Some people just order one drink while sitting for hours, and it is quite a common practice in the country.
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What Are The New Rules?
Starbucks took this decision after multiple posts went viral showing customers set up bulky items in the cafe, blocking other customers. The new rule is meant to keep the Starbucks space welcoming and comfortable for all. It does not mean that customers cannot study or work; it just means they should not turn the coffeehouse into a mini office.
The company has posted notices in all branches across the country to follow the new rule. Clear instructions mention that customers should not carry large equipment. Also, customers should take their belongings with them, if they’re stepping out of the outlet for a long time. Moreover, if a customer is sitting on a shared table with empty chairs, they should make room for other guests.
What are your thoughts about Starbucks’ new rule in South Korea? Let us know in the comments.
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Cover Image Courtesy: Wikimedia Commons (Representative Image)