According to a recent market study, the most frequent visitors to coffee shops are from the low-income group, earning VND5-10 million (US$200-400) per month. They typically visit cafes one to three times a week. The second largest group comprises those with a monthly income of VND10-20 million, who also frequent cafes with similar regularity.
Whether it is for enjoying a morning coffee, catching up with friends in the afternoon, or finding a cozy corner to work remotely, coffee shops have become an essential part of many people’s lives, especially among the youth.
This trend can be attributed to several factors. First, cafes have evolved beyond simply serving beverages. They have become spaces for relaxation and entertainment where people can meet friends and business partners. Many young people, due to their cramped dorms or living spaces, find themselves going to coffee shops multiple times a week to study or work because they lack space at home.
Some might argue that these visits are a waste of money. However, compared to other forms of entertainment such as going to the movies or dining out, grabbing a coffee is much more affordable. Why else would they choose to sit at a cafe if they had a higher income that could afford other forms of entertainment?
Hence, "those with low income frequent coffee shops the most" become an interesting phenomenon. While many consider it wasteful, others with a more open perspective might empathize with today’s youth.
Do you think it is wasteful to visit coffee shops often?
Reader Quang Dung
*This opinion was translated into English with the assistance of AI. Readers’ views are personal and do not necessarily match VnExpress’ viewpoints.