Costa Coffee Barista Address the Issue of Customers’ Unhygienic Behavior
A Costa Coffee barista recently highlighted a concerning habit among customers that is considered both unhygienic and impolite. The issue was brought to light in a TikTok video that garnered over 170,000 views, shedding light on the need for proper etiquette in cafes and coffee shops. The video showcases how some customers feel comfortable enough to take off their shoes while inside cafes and restaurants, much to the chagrin of hospitality workers.
In response to this behaviour, Costa Coffee barista, Raluka Ciora, expressed her thoughts, stating that it is not very hygienic or polite for customers to sit with their shoes off, especially when placing their feet on another chair. Despite noticing many customers engaging in this practice, Ciora admitted to refraining from addressing the issue directly. She alluded to an unspoken rule of conduct in public spaces, suggesting that confronting customers could be uncomfortable. However, in cases where complaints arise, she offers the customer lodging the complaint the option to relocate away from the individual with their shoes off.
Moreover, payment experts at Dojo weighed in on the matter, emphasizing the increasing trend of people working from cafes, particularly with the rise of remote work policies. While acknowledging the desire for customers to feel at ease in these spaces, the experts stressed the importance of adhering to proper etiquette. This includes keeping shoes and socks on and maintaining appropriate noise levels to enhance the overall experience for both staff and patrons.
In line with promoting a positive cafe culture, there are several guidelines that coffee shop experts recommend customers follow. Firstly, patrons are urged to be mindful of noise levels, ensuring that they do not disrupt others with loud conversations or activities. For individuals working remotely, it is advised to refrain from making noisy online calls or playing music aloud, with the use of headphones being encouraged as a courtesy to fellow customers.
Another key etiquette rule is to avoid overstaying one’s welcome. While it is common to linger in cafes, it is essential to be considerate of other customers and the establishment itself. To support the business, customers intending to spend extended periods working or socialising should order additional items throughout their stay, thereby contributing to the cafe’s revenue.
Furthermore, customers are reminded not to occupy more space than necessary, especially during peak hours. It is recommended to be mindful of table usage and to refrain from spreading belongings across multiple seats. In busier times, customers should be open to sharing tables to accommodate others and maintain a harmonious atmosphere within the cafe.
In essence, fostering a welcoming and respectful environment in cafes and coffee shops requires a collective effort from both customers and staff. By observing proper etiquette, such as keeping shoes on, being considerate of noise levels, and respecting shared spaces, individuals can contribute to a positive and enjoyable cafe experience for all. Let’s all strive to uphold these guidelines and cultivate a culture of respect and courtesy in our favourite coffee spots.