Coffee Shops in China Crack Down on Check-in Bloggers, Banning Photography
BEIJING – A growing number of coffee shopsacross China are taking a stand against the trend of check-in bloggers, banning photography and even asking them to leave the premises. This move reflects agrowing frustration among some business owners with the perceived intrusion and disruption caused by these influencers, who often prioritize aesthetic shots over genuine enjoyment of the coffee experience.
The phrase 本店禁止拍照! (No photography allowed in this store!), is becoming increasingly common on signs and menus in coffee shops, particularly in major cities like Beijing and Shanghai. This trend, highlighted in a recent article by 36Kr, a leading Chinese technology media outlet, signals a shift in the relationship between businesses and social media influencers.
It’s gotten out of hand, said Li Wei, owner of a small, independent coffee shop in Beijing.People come in, take dozens of photos, spend five minutes on their coffee, and then leave. They’re not even here for the coffee, they’re just here for the photos.
Li, like many other coffee shop owners, feels that the influx of check-in bloggers disrupts theatmosphere and experience for paying customers. The constant flash of cameras, the blocking of seating areas for photo shoots, and the general commotion created by these influencers can be off-putting to other patrons.
I understand the need for people to share their experiences online, Li added. But there’s a differencebetween sharing and disrupting the experience for others.
This sentiment is echoed by many other coffee shop owners. Some have implemented stricter policies, including requiring customers to purchase a minimum amount before being allowed to take photos. Others have opted for more subtle approaches, like placing strategically placed signs or requesting that customers refrain from taking photos duringpeak hours.
The rise of check-in bloggers, often fueled by social media platforms like WeChat and Weibo, has been a significant phenomenon in China. These bloggers, often with large followings, visit trendy cafes and restaurants, take photos of their food and surroundings, and share them online. This practice,known as 打卡 (check-in), has become a popular way for people to showcase their lifestyle and connect with others.
However, the influx of these bloggers has also led to concerns about authenticity and the potential for businesses to be exploited. Some argue that the focus on aesthetics and social media clout overshadows thegenuine enjoyment of the experience.
It’s become a race to the top, said Zhang Xia, a coffee enthusiast and regular at local cafes. Everyone wants to get the most likes and shares, and the quality of the coffee or the experience itself becomes secondary.
The crackdown on check-in bloggers is not limited to coffee shops. Restaurants, museums, and other businesses are also starting to implement similar restrictions. This trend reflects a growing awareness of the potential downsides of social media influence and a desire to reclaim control over the customer experience.
While the ban on photography may seem like a drastic measure, it highlightsa growing tension between the desire for social media validation and the need for a genuine and enjoyable experience. As the influence of social media continues to grow, it remains to be seen how businesses will navigate this delicate balance.
【来源】https://36kr.com/p/2920897536383618
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