Influencers are being banned from cafes, even towns. Why? | Mashable.

Why are cafes, restaurants, and even towns banning influencers?

From a picturesque town to a Brooklyn cafe, popular destinations are closing their doors to influencers.

Credit: Mashable/Image

Nowadays, it seems like every place "worth" frequenting is deemed that way by influencers. Lifestyle TikTokkers and Instagram foodies inform the world of which restaurants to choose, the pop-ups currently open, and where to eat when travelling.

But some spots are closing their doors on influencers, raising questions. Take Dae, a design shop and cafe in Brooklyn. As reported by Curbed, the space was inundated by influencers carrying tripods, to the point where the owners decided to ban them entirely. The issue was addressed on the cafe's Instagram account, permitting visitors to take "quick snaps" at their own tables, but firmly adding their new in-store, no photos-and-videos policy: "We love food and drink photos (clearly) … but the TikToks and Instagram photoshoots have gotten a bit out of control for us."

Just weeks earlier, a Vermont town came under the spotlight for invoking similar rules. Known for its picturesque autumn landscape, Pomfret closed its most visited and photographed spots to influencers and tourists. The town's board voted to shutter these areas between Sept. 23 and Oct. 15, citing "significant safety, environmental, aesthetic, and quality of life issues."

In July, some residents of the town created a public GoFundMe page to save Cloudland Road, a bucolic strip of land that served as a popular backdrop to fall-focused social media content. The fundraiser's organizers allege that determined visitors, intent on capturing perfect photographs, "have changed the neighborhood landscape to the point that it is untenable."

Two TikTok screenshots of Dae Cafe and a spot in Vermont.

These are just two more recent incidents of this nature. In Jan. 2018, a hotel in Ireland banned all "bloggers", after an influencer asked the owner for a free stay in exchange for content. In Feb. 2020, a cafe in Taiwan "strictly banned" influencers, frustrated by Instagrammers going to great lengths to obtain their perfect shot within the store.

For some, banning content creators in 2023 seems like an interesting choice. It's hard to look past the rise of influencer marketing, and the subsequent reliance on influencers for promotion. That reliance comes from both businesses, wanting to promote products and places, and consumers, seeking suggestions from internet voices they trust.

One reason for such bans is simply logistical. Viral videos may be conducive to growth but oftentimes, the subjects of these videos aren't prepared for a surge in popularity. Dr. Marcus Collins, marketing professor at the University of Michigan, says that some restaurants and local attractions "can’t handle the new demand" and do not hold the infrastructure for it, therefore feeling "a physical strain". Sarah Blocksidge, a marketing director, agrees: "The reality is that some businesses just aren’t suited for the influx of people an influencer can attract, which can wind up hurting the business more than helping it."

 "The reality is that some businesses just aren’t suited for the influx of people an influencer can attract, which can wind up hurting the business more than helping it."
- Sarah Blocksidge

But it seems the era of being disillusioned by some influencers, and their choices, has also dawned. Earlier this year, de-influencing became a craze (somewhat ironically). Over the summer, TikTokkers expressed outrage at the influx of micro-trends that not only have a ridiculously short lifespan, but also lack meaning. A growing faction of the internet seems fatigued by influencing, especially when it entails a constant barrage of capitalist content or a lack of self-awareness.

The same concept can be applied to the leisure industry. Sam Shaw, strategy director at consumer insights firm Canvas8, says that some influencers are perceived as having "a superficial relationship with the places they visit."

"Most places want sustainable customer-bases, not just swarms of people who are there 'for the gram' and then onto the next place," says Shaw. "This an extension of the earlier banning of phones and taking pictures in certain restaurants and clubs, in order to protect the “presence” of the experience for those who are there for the substance."

 "Most places want sustainable customer-bases, not just swarms of people who are there 'for the gram' and then onto the next place."
- Sam Shaw

It's true that no-camera rules are not a new phenomenon: as early as 2013, major restaurants began to enforce stricter regulations for those intent on documenting meals. The New York Times described these diners as the "legions of amateur iPhone-wielding food lovers, who say what they do is a tribute — not to mention free advertising for the restaurants."

Over a decade later, the act of taking food pics has evolved into full-fledged careers for many. While this has revolutionized the hospitality and F&B industries to some extent, there is another side to be considered. As Dae's recent move illustrates, some spaces don't feel that they require social media promotion from others to boost their own sales. Joe Karasin, owner of a digital PR and SEO agency, says that sometimes influencers are "greatly misguided in the value they bring to brands."

"Sure, Kim Kardashian can help a brand sell products, but the overwhelming majority of micro-influencers bring little value," says Karasin.

He adds that there's a recent trend of influencers feeling a sense of misplaced ownership over both private and public spaces, also sometimes demanding free goods in exchange for content (as noted in the case of the B&B in Dublin). Baruch Labunski, founder of a digital marketing company, concurs, saying that "private businesses have grown tired of influencers because many go to cafes, venues, and even businesses like boat rentals to get items or services for free in exchange for a mention."

This may not be a consensus – and let's face it, influencers aren't going anywhere – but there is a tangible backlash around algorithms and their ruling power. As Shaw says, many are asking for a return for "protecting 'offline' experiences". Banning or limiting influencers seems like a way to offer this — even if the brands and businesses doing so have Instagram pages of their own.

Comments

  1. Not everywhere, but there should be spaces that are analog, so people remember real life.

    ReplyDelete
  2. I’m glad to hear that! They need to get a real job

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. what is a real job? You jealous because some of these people make lots of money doing what they are doing?

      Delete
  3. But what will reality TV rejects and hopefuls do now? Will they have to get a job and do actual work? That's so unfair. These policies are stopping them from expressing themselves and sharing vital community information.

    ReplyDelete
  4. When you peak in high school and need to make money

    ReplyDelete
  5. they want everything for free?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. And these entitled little kids want it all free bc they are influencers. NO thanks

      Delete
  6. Every year there is a list of banned words and "influencer" should be on that list this time around.

    ReplyDelete
  7. Shallow self entitled people who is bad for other working professionals such as writers and professional photographers. We lost out good paying jobs because of these people

    ReplyDelete
  8. Because they’re annoying and entitled in most cases.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. hat was exactly what I was going to write! 😊

      Delete
    2. and they all seem to have that same ‘I’m better than you’ tone of voice

      Delete
  9. Because they don't buy coffee they just msg and take picture of themselves.

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  10. The world is healing.

    ReplyDelete
  11. Cause privacy and rules and stuff

    ReplyDelete
  12. They were the worst guests.

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  13. Reminds of that target chick, target has rules for influencers not that they dont allow them just a heads up would be nice and and after they shut it down she started accusing them of racism, fake fame often leads to a big head 🤷‍♂️

    ReplyDelete
  14. What is an influencer and who decides who is one?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. The world is healing.
      Hows the weather out there ?

      Delete
  15. Cos they’re posing freeloaders.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hello, I hope you don't get this the wrong way, am well respected and I know a lot of a don't extend a friendly Back but do strangers but I believe it is a pleasure to make new friends and new things all over the world forgive me if I just invaded your privacy but I hope you understand, I'm just trying to be a friend you putting a smile on my face with your lovely posts I always enjoy what you share here on Facebook but we're not friends yet, I have tried times to send you a friend request but it's not going through I'll be so glad If you can just click into my profile and send me a friend request, thanks. Claire

      Delete
  16. What are they supposedly influencing? If it goes against your company’s ethics or policies, then why would you want them around? 🤷🏻‍♂️ I agree, who cares about them or wants them. They are literally a dime a dozen. Hell everyone thinks they are an “ Influencer “ now. 🤣🤷🏻‍♂️

    ReplyDelete
  17. Funny too how most if not all of them are in their teens or early 20's or at least under 30 years old & thinking that supposedly they have a lifetime of knowledge, wisdom & experiences to be able to influence anyone about anything !?🤷‍♂️

    ReplyDelete
  18. Good they need that ever where exactly gyms should ban cameras.

    ReplyDelete
  19. Should ban them from gyms too.

    ReplyDelete
  20. Dumbfluencers 🤗

    ReplyDelete
  21. #TalentlessHacks #AttentionWhores #KardashianDemonSpawn

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  22. Why? Because all of the become as sho at a certain point in time. They think they are superstars and blue blood. 😂😂😂

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  23. More like spoilt brats

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  24. Bc the internet isn't real.

    ReplyDelete
  25. Do they really influence ? lmao

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. good point ☑️ I think they just influence people that want to be influencers...¿?

      Delete
  26. I can probably guess.

    ReplyDelete
  27. Because they are completely obnoxious

    ReplyDelete
  28. Who’s being influenced by these muppets anyway?

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  29. Because they've turned into a menace, and their so called "followers", who are dumber than they are, might go the place in question and bring the same garbage attitude with them.

    ReplyDelete
  30. Stop calling them Influencers, they're idiots with cameras.

    ReplyDelete
  31. https://media1.tenor.co/m/h9DWB9Y5B3cAAAAd/so-so-annoying-the-vivienne.gif?c=VjFfZmFjZWJvb2tfd2ViY29tbWVudHM&itemid=26155511&fbclid=IwAR1vUmsotTkGNziLK8goqxwDd0cho1_p4dQRgEKxaWnQkZZfYYwceBcmxqQ

    ReplyDelete
  32. Because they are parasites

    ReplyDelete
  33. Because in the real world nobody likes them.

    ReplyDelete
  34. because they're a waste of space

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  35. They are annoying 😂

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  36. Good. They a waste of Oxygen

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  37. Because influencers are generally entitled entitled fuckwits

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  38. My restaurant has a faraday cage so there is no mobile signal or Wi-Fi inside, the lights have bright infrared flashings LED which is invisible to patrons but impossible to take photos. I have no signage, no online presence as the restaurant is invite only. Yet I am at capacity almost every night. PS: Yes there is a working phone inside its called a Land line and it is free to use and is available in a privacy booth

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  39. Because they are all idiots, followed by other millions of idiots?

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  40. Lets cut them off from internet as well .
    Stop reporting about them .

    ReplyDelete
  41. Because they are a joke!!! I mean, come on who are they kidding!!!

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  42. That's silly. Influencers are the new promoters.

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  43. Cause they are annoying, maybe??

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  44. Research studies have already been done, 99.9 percent of these so called ‘influencers’ will just eventually waste a huge amount of their time and not make any real income doing this.

    A lot of them don’t have a Plan B so off they go back living under their moms basements or surfing their friends couch 🤷‍♂️

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Where does this research come from?

      Delete
    2. It’s a huge research done over 5 years. Google it.

      Delete
    3. Research? Or an opinion piece by someone who writes for NPR. Send the link.

      Delete
    4. its an actual research with samples. It’s been a while just Google it should pop up. They have a podcast and documentary regarding it as well

      Delete
    5. I bet your really fun at parties

      Delete
    6. Lampshade on my head hilarious is what I am matey. What is your point?

      Delete
  45. Gonna guess it’s because they’re horible toxic people no one can stand to be near.

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  46. We are all influencers that word is so dumb

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  47. the thing is none of these mindless airheads are actual “influencers.” I mean theyre not influencing anyone with an actual brain in their head. the only people stupid enough to be influenced by these morons are just kids with no guidance or sheep 🐑 👌

    ReplyDelete
  48. Because they're mostly freeloading entitled jumped up pricks who seem to think they're a Kardashian or Beckham?

    ReplyDelete
  49. Influencers are parasites! Expect everything for free!

    ReplyDelete
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    ReplyDelete
  51. Because some are thick face and do not follow good business ethics...some abuse for free

    ReplyDelete
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    ReplyDelete
  53. Because they create such a false illusion of perfection and most act incredibly entitled .

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. 🦌⛑🤗🍂You have to keep it like this. https://tosmartweb.vercel.app/

      Delete
  54. Wow! You guys are actually reporting on something useful.....

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. 100% agree with you. Like this is something important.

      Delete
  55. Because they are professional bums . Think the world owes them a living . Chase them out of my shop .

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. can you tell me what your shop is because I never want to come their with the disqusting language you use

      Delete
  56. Because they’re annoying and disrespectful asf?

    ReplyDelete
  57. Because they’re entitled and disrespectful creatures. The locals who work in Positano hates dealing them.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. 🐴🎭😊🌎You have to keep it like this. https://tomakecomeweb.vercel.app/

      Delete
  58. Some them not influencer but I understand people have to make a living pay bills

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  59. Every day when I go to the outhouse I’m an influencer

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  60. because of their sense of entitlement

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  61. Because they’re phonies.

    ReplyDelete
  62. Because most of them are nothing more than entitled people not willing to pay for anything. I would not want professional bums in my space either

    ReplyDelete
  63. My favorite are the one’s that say “i got a million + followers, what are you going to do about it? Im (insert entitlement platform here) famous”

    😂 good for you hunny let me grab the door on your way out for your lord or ladyship 🤣

    ReplyDelete
  64. Because they act like tools?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. beg to differ . The word is "are" , not "act"

      Delete
  65. Because not even leftists can put up with these people.

    ReplyDelete
  66. Because it’s lame.

    ReplyDelete
  67. Because nothing is more inconsequential than someone telling you how important they are while talking about what others are DOING.

    ReplyDelete
  68. Close the internet to them also .
    Stop reporting about them.

    ReplyDelete
  69. Can’t say anyone will miss them

    ReplyDelete
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    ReplyDelete
  71. Possibly because most of them are total Wankers.

    ReplyDelete
  72. Because they are annoying AF!

    ReplyDelete
  73. Because they’re self righteous, entitled idiots.

    ReplyDelete
  74. Influencers??? 🤣

    ReplyDelete
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  76. Because most of them are entitled useless parasites?

    ReplyDelete
  77. Because nobody likes a Karen over and over and over again.

    ReplyDelete
  78. Cause they're fckn stupid and ret@$%!&

    ReplyDelete
  79. Can we talk about the ones who bring tripods and literally a film crew to the gym to film themselves? It’s going a bit overboard.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I almost ran into someone's tripod at my gym.

      Delete
    2. I should have stepped on it, total hazard

      Delete
  80. IMHO, the right approach is to treat “influencers” as journalists, requiring permitting in advance: there is plenty of precedent and doing so would clarify the business relationships. They are, after all, monetizing their content at the expense of tourists and paying customers.

    ReplyDelete
  81. Please specify BAD INFLUENCERS. There are still good out there. I work with a brand who still have a good relationship with good influencers for the past 4 years. They have helped this brand to what it is today. It is unfair to generalize and think every influencer is bad.

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  82. Good! It's obnoxious and overplayed.

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  83. They're just destroying the natural mood & environment of the places & making others uncomfortable who're having a good time there.

    ReplyDelete
  84. Cause they're not really influencing anything but their own egos. No one cares about those pathetic humans. They're not good people anyways... Not a single one

    ReplyDelete
  85. P!ss off and make some proper culture you useless reprobates.

    ReplyDelete
  86. Because they’re annoying?

    ReplyDelete
  87. Because they are annoying?

    ReplyDelete
  88. Exposure doesn’t pay the bills.

    ReplyDelete
  89. Why? Because they’re universally hated. There is no need to write an article on this subject.

    ReplyDelete
  90. When you give power to empty heads , bad results .

    ReplyDelete
  91. Because they are the epitome of misinformation

    ReplyDelete
  92. You see the necessity of public domain? If you diverted all those angry picture takers to a public domain... [open-source] website and allowed every pathetic person to download it. Would you have to worry about a computer virus?

    ReplyDelete
  93. Because they’re parasitic leeches.

    ReplyDelete
  94. Dumbfluencers 🤗

    ReplyDelete
  95. Because they're annoying and expect free food?

    ReplyDelete
  96. Because a great wuantity of influences are wrong.

    ReplyDelete
  97. This is good news.

    ReplyDelete
  98. They start boycotting the restaurants. Conservative cancel culture

    ReplyDelete
  99. Because influencers are total Dbags?

    ReplyDelete
  100. WTF is an influencer?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. a Millennial living in mom's basement who thinks they're going to be the next internet mega star for uptalking and over using the term "hack" whenever they discover a tip that we've all known about for years and expect free things instead of going out and getting a real job.

      I've had many of them in my store and actually had 1 overstep and create social accounts for my store on our behalf that I had to put a stop to (we have our own long established accounts) and another who wanted to be hired at $30/HR who was just out of high school.

      Delete
    2. thanx… I live in Thailand and we have millennials here but not as spoiled as American millennials. Spoiled, but not as bad.

      Delete
    3. we hired college students to work at our store. These kids couldn't sweep or mop the floor and we had 1 quit because he thought he was going to be the next internet star but we needed them to actually do manual labor.
      If the internet goes down tomorrow, these kids lack skills to be productive in society.

      Delete
    4. gotta agree with you but I think our parents thought pretty much the same about us Boomers.
      Although I worked in a fruit orchard, gas stations, and dish washing at a restaurant. The folks still bragged about walking through the snow to school, uphill both ways 😂

      Delete
    5. the youngest millennial is 26 years old this year, the oldest is 42. Most of them grew up without much of an internet. I think you have your inaccurate generalization of an entire generation based on wrong generation.

      Delete
    6. they keep redefining the ages. I've got kids aged 34, 31, 24, 18. When 34 & 31 were born they were called Gen Y and rightfully so - they were the next generation but still have GenX core values. The 24yo was then called a Millennial. Today they lump them all as Millennials. They are NOT the same. A generation is 14 years. Now they're trying to call us Gen Xers "Xillenials" which is total b's, we were the last great generation before PC took over. Meanwhile Gen Z is all over the place. And they're calling my under 10 grandsons Generation Alpha which is hysterical because most of them are raised by Millennials who candy coated their own existence, there's no way they're raising alpha anything.
      Perhaps we should call these who create this stuff "dumbasses" because everything to them is a hack.

      Delete
    7. Basically anyone who refuses to face the real world and get an actual job so they resort to filming themselves and con mom and dad to support their lifestyle.

      Delete
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