taz.de
LAP Coffee's Rapid Expansion Fuels Debate on Sustainability and Gentrification
Berlin-based coffee chain LAP stores is rapidly expanding nationwide in under two years, using a minimalist, automated system to sell inexpensive coffee and building a community around lifestyle branding and social media engagement, despite criticisms about displacement of local businesses and environmental concerns.
- What is the key factor driving the immense popularity and rapid expansion of LAP coffee shops despite their minimalist approach and focus on to-go orders?
- LAP stores, a rapidly expanding German coffee chain, sell inexpensive coffee with a minimalist approach, focusing on efficiency and to-go orders. Their success is driven by low prices (Cappuccino €2.50, Flat White €3.00) and a streamlined process using automated machines. This model allows them to undercut competitors and attract a large customer base, particularly among younger, urban demographics.
- What are the potential long-term implications of LAP's business model for the café industry in Germany, considering its reliance on social media trends, disposable packaging, and its impact on local businesses?
- The rapid expansion of LAP and similar chains like Munchies raises concerns about the displacement of smaller, independent cafes and the environmental impact of excessive single-use packaging. While LAP has introduced a reusable cup system, its core branding relies on the visual appeal of its disposable cups, reinforcing environmental concerns. This model's long-term sustainability and its impact on local communities remain questionable, especially with a reliance on short-lived social media trends.
- How does LAP's business model, particularly its marketing strategy and brand collaborations, contribute to both its success and the criticism it faces regarding displacement of local businesses and environmental impact?
- LAP's success is based on a digitally driven marketing strategy that transforms coffee into a lifestyle product. By leveraging social media trends and collaborating with popular brands (Adidas, Lululemon, Bumble), they create a sense of community and exclusivity, attracting customers who value social media engagement and brand affiliation. This approach generates significant hype, resulting in long queues and high daily customer counts.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The narrative frames LAP and Munchies predominantly as negative forces contributing to gentrification and environmental damage. The headline and introduction emphasize the long lines and the unusual nature of queuing for coffee, immediately setting a critical tone. The inclusion of negative quotes from competitors further reinforces this negative framing. While acknowledging some positive aspects, the overall structure and emphasis lean towards criticism.
Language Bias
The article uses loaded language such as "hype," "glatten, hippen Lebensstil" (smooth, hip lifestyle), and "Life Among Profits" (a play on LAP's name), which carries negative connotations. Phrases like "verdrängt" (displaces) and "Augenwischerei" (eye-wash) are strongly critical. More neutral alternatives could include "replaces," "disrupts," or providing a more balanced description of the marketing tactics instead of labelling them as mere "hype.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on the negative impacts of LAP and Munchies, giving less attention to potential positive aspects such as providing affordable coffee and employment opportunities. The perspectives of LAP customers who appreciate the convenience and affordability are largely absent. While criticism of environmental impact is included, a balanced discussion of the company's efforts to mitigate this, such as the introduction of the Recup system, could provide a more complete picture.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a false dichotomy between LAP/Munchies and traditional cafes, implying that supporting one necessitates opposing the other. It overlooks the possibility of co-existence or the potential for traditional cafes to adapt and integrate some elements of the new models' success.
Gender Bias
While the article mentions both male and female founders and employees, there is no overt gender bias in language or representation. However, a more in-depth analysis of the demographics of the customer base and employees would be beneficial to fully assess potential gender disparities.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article highlights how LAP coffee shops, through their low prices and efficient model, are outcompeting smaller, independent cafes. This leads to the closure of established businesses and potentially exacerbates economic inequality within local communities. The displacement of smaller cafes, often owned by individuals or smaller businesses, contributes to a less diverse and potentially less equitable economic landscape.