'Taximeter' era in cafes: Half-hourly order requirements and table fees spark backlash

In this period of rising inflation, cafes, especially those near universities, have introduced new rules.

THEY ARE SPECIFICALLY TARGETING STUDENTS

Customers are being required to place an order every half hour, and restrictions on table usage are being imposed on those who place low-value orders. This practice is drawing significant backlash, particularly among the student population.

THEY ARE DEMANDING TABLE FEES

On the other hand, table fee practices have begun to spread in some luxury cafes. In Istanbul, Izmir, and Aydın, if customers do not order tea or coffee, they are charged an extra fee based on the duration of their stay. For example, the use of large tables is prohibited for orders under 220 TL.

TAXIMETER CAFES

In some cafes in busy areas, warning notes are placed on tables, and those who do not order anything are forced to pay a fee between 20-50 TL for every half hour. This situation is leading to practices being criticized as "cafes that operate like taximeters."

When students go to cafes to study or socialize, they are encountering these new practices. The pressure to order and additional costs like table fees are making it harder for students to access cafes.

Businesses argue that rising costs make such practices necessary. It is stated that high inflation, rent increases, staff salaries, and rising material prices are driving businesses toward these new rules.

However, customers state that these practices restrict the freedom to socialize and increase economic pressure.

IS IT LEGAL?

Whether this practice, which is controversial in terms of consumer rights, is legal has not yet been clarified.