Introduction:In Shengzhou, Shaoxing, Zhejiang, the outdoor seating area of a Starbucks store has long been used by several elderly individuals as a place for playing cards and resting. This not only causes noise disturbances but also affects the experience of other customers. After multiple unsuccessful attempts to dissuade the behavior, the staff called the police. Eventually, the authorities coordinated a solution that led most of the elderly to leave. This incident has sparked public discussion about the boundaries of public space usage and the operational rights of businesses. This article delves into the details of the event and offers practical suggestions to help both consumers and businesses maintain a pleasant coffee environment together.

Recently, the outdoor seating area of a Starbucks store in Baolong Plaza, Shengzhou, Zhejiang, became a regular gathering spot for several elderly individuals. These seniors not only chatted and rested here but also turned the outdoor area into an entertainment space, gathering to play cards and mahjong, which raised the ambient noise level and affected the seating and overall experience of other customers.

According to eyewitnesses, the outdoor seating area was almost entirely occupied by elderly residents from the neighborhood. Some seniors even displayed unfriendly attitudes toward other customers or passersby who wished to rest briefly. In fact, Starbucks originally allowed customers or passersby to use the outdoor seats temporarily and occasionally provided simple services such as water and napkins, provided it did not affect operations or other guests.

However, these elderly individuals not only occupied the seats for extended periods with little to no consumption, but also engaged in activities such as playing cards, generating noise that clearly disturbed surrounding customers. There were even instances where they refused to give up their seats. A staff member revealed that some paying customers wished to sit in the outdoor area but were unable to do so because the seats were taken, which impacted the overall service quality of the store.

After multiple failed attempts at persuasion and even minor verbal altercations, Starbucks employees ultimately decided to call the police. Upon arrival, the police mediated the situation, and most of the elderly complied and left the scene that day, temporarily easing the issue.

The mall management stated that they were aware of the frequent gatherings of elderly people playing cards in the area, but according to regulations, the daily order of the outdoor seating area is the responsibility of Starbucks to maintain. If people are merely sitting and resting, the mall typically does not intervene. However, if the behavior begins to affect the normal operation of merchants, appropriate management measures must be sought. The mall has since communicated with relevant departments and plans to guide these seniors to suitable elderly service centers to reduce conflicts.

This incident has triggered widespread discussion online. Most netizens support Starbucks for taking reasonable measures to maintain its operational environment and customers’ rights. Many consumers believe that while respect for the elderly is important, the use of public spaces should also consider the feelings of others. Excessive recreational behavior and the monopolization of resources can negatively impact the experience of other patrons.

Legal experts pointed out that simply sitting in the outdoor seating area of a business establishment is not illegal. However, behaviors involving loud noise, card games, or mahjong—especially when they disturb others or impact a business’s operations—may violate Article 23 of China’s Public Security Administration Punishment Law. If the outdoor seats are primarily intended for customer use, and elderly individuals occupy them long-term for non-consumptive activities, the business has the right to seek police assistance in handling the matter.

This incident highlights the challenges commercial spaces like cafés face in managing outdoor seating areas. For businesses, in addition to establishing clear usage guidelines and signage, it is recommended to employ gentle persuasion, temporary restrictions, or collaborate with community resources—for example, guiding seniors to appropriate resting places—to achieve a harmonious coexistence.

For consumers, whether young or old, it is important to understand the shared nature of public spaces. Prolonged occupation of seats for non-consumptive activities should be avoided, especially during peak hours. Consideration for the needs of others is essential to collectively foster a welcoming coffee-drinking environment.

The above content is compiled by CoffeeHunters, a coffee news website.