The Bengaluru Hotel Owners’ Association is exploring the idea of introducing a penalty mechanism for customers who occupy tables for long stretches of time after placing very small orders, arguing that such behavior is hurting business revenues.
Bengaluru Hotel Owners Consider Penalty for Customers Who Occupy Tables After Minimal Orders
Hotel operators across Bengaluru, especially small and mid-sized establishments, have observed an increasing pattern of customers lingering for hours after ordering only items like tea, coffee, or light snacks.
Many of these customers reportedly use hotel seating areas as informal meeting spaces, holding extended discussions that take up tables and contribute to overcrowding.
The association believes this practice has a direct impact on daily earnings, particularly during peak business hours when other paying customers struggle to find available seating because tables remain occupied for too long.
Several hotel owners have formally reached out to the association, asking it to take prompt action to safeguard their commercial interests and prevent further financial strain.
Proposal Suggests Table Usage Fee for Customers Who Linger After Small Orders
Under the proposal being discussed, customers who remain seated for extended periods after making minimal purchases could be required to pay a fee for table usage, similar in concept to how parking charges work.
The primary objective behind the suggested fee is to promote fair turnover of tables and discourage unnecessary blocking of seating space.
The association has clarified that the idea is still at a preliminary discussion stage and has not yet been finalized.
A formal letter is expected to be submitted to the government soon, requesting approval and clear guidelines so that any such system can be implemented in a lawful and equitable manner.
If authorities grant approval, the proposed table charge system could be rolled out across Bengaluru, especially in high-traffic commercial zones where prolonged table occupation is reportedly a significant issue.
