No More Coffee Shop Coworking? UK Cafes Crack Down On Laptop Use To Free Up Seats

In response to the growing number of remote workers who are “hogging” seats during peak hours, two UK eateries have introduced restrictions on laptop use. Milk and Bean in Newbury has implemented a one-hour limit on laptop use during weekdays, and has banned laptops entirely on weekends. Similarly, The Collective in Caversham has prohibited laptops on weekends and restricted their use to between 11:30 am and 1:30 pm on weekdays. Both establishments have cited reduced revenue and slower table turnover as reasons for these measures.

Alex Middleton, manager of The Collective, told the BBC that the aim of the policy is to create a “balance” that prevents financial loss, and “doesn’t compromise us losing money.”

Chris Chaplin, owner of Milk and Bean, echoed these concerns. He noted that “having [people using] laptops isn’t really ideal,” as it leads to reduced turnover and modest spending compared to patrons who do not use laptops. Chaplin added that laptop use tends to detract from the “vibe” of the establishment.

Middleton also shared with the BBC that as a small, independent business, it is crucial for them to keep tables occupied and turnover high. He stressed the importance of preventing customers from “hogging” tables, while also wanting to avoid disrespecting patrons who come in with laptops.

He said that while laptop users often have “quite a low spend,” they would spend “quite a long time” at tables. Middleton told the BBC that they get both types of customers at their restaurant. For one, they are “lucky” because many of their clients are “returning customers” who come in frequently, so they follow the guidelines. He said that the other sort became a little agitated over it.

Chaplin, on the other hand, described enforcing the policy as “one of those awkward conversations,” but noted that he often had “no choice” but to ask customers to shut their laptops. The rise in remote work since the pandemic has led many people to use cafés as secondary workspaces, drawn by free Wi-Fi and power outlets.

Despite potential backlash, the cafe owners believe that these restrictions are necessary for improving operations and ensuring a fair environment for all patrons. They see the measures as necessary to balance the needs of all customers and maintain a thriving business.