New practice in cafes: Extra fee for customers who do not order

Some cafes and restaurants in Istanbul have started demanding a new fee from their customers. It is alleged that a 50 TL "table fee" is being charged every half hour to customers who do not place an order. This practice requires customers to pay even just for sitting.

A PRACTICE CONTRARY TO CONSUMER RIGHTS

Consumer Protection Association (TÜKODER) President Aziz Koçal stated that this practice is contrary to consumer law. Koçal said, "Demanding fees in cafes under the name of a 'taximeter' or 'table occupation' is contrary to the Law on the Protection of the Consumer No. 6502. A fee cannot be demanded from a consumer without providing a service." He also emphasized that such charges must be notified to the consumer in a clear and understandable manner in advance.

ADVICE TO CONSUMERS

Stating that businesses should abandon such practices, Koçal said, "Cafes are social sharing spaces and should not be viewed as commercial commodities. The Ministry of Trade and local administrations need to inspect these practices." He advised consumers not to pay the fee if they encounter such a situation and to apply to the Consumer Arbitration Committees.

News Source: 12punto