A New York City coffee shop has sparked debate by charging customers who use laptops a $10 daily fee. The new policy has drawn mixed reactions, especially in a city known for its high cost of living. Sidnye Nikole, a local resident, voiced her frustration, noting that working remotely at cafes now comes with added costs beyond pricey drinks. She questioned the fairness of paying both for coffee and to use her laptop at a cafe.
Some critics called this “subscription-based sitting,” highlighting the growing expenses people face, even for communal spaces like cafes. Others argue that it’s reasonable, pointing out that many remote workers buy a single coffee and occupy tables for hours, which hurts businesses struggling with high rents.
While some suggest time limits on laptop use as a fair compromise, others believe remote workers should support libraries or other public spaces instead of expecting unlimited use of a café. Ultimately, the debate reflects larger issues of accessibility, affordability, and the shifting nature of work life in an increasingly expensive world. Cafes, once viewed as affordable community hubs, are now finding ways to balance hospitality and survival in a challenging economy.
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