The Humble Coffee Shop
Despite competition coffee shops still have a role as incubators for innovation and the exchange of groundbreaking ideas.
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Once humble establishments for caffeine enthusiasts, coffee shops or cafes have evolved into iconic hubs of creativity and innovation. Since 17th century England, coffeehouses were known as 'penny universities', a phrase coined in Oxford (I believe), describing an accessible forum where patrons could engage in catalysing conversations and debate for the price of a cup of coffee.
During the Enlightenment era (1680–1820), coffeehouses of London and beyond were catalysts for free thought and discussions that sparked ideas for new technologies, businesses and societal change.
Today, coffee shops still play a role in idea generation, thought exchange, collaboration, team/startup meetings and even collaborative brainstorming sessions; even when taking the photo of my delicious cup of coffee, a small group of passionate individuals were discussing the potential to launch a new business venture, rather than going back to their jobs after the holidays.
How exciting for them.
This is just a small testament to these local establishments' enduring legacy and that despite all the competition and co-working hubs available today, coffee shops still have a role as incubators for innovation and the exchange of groundbreaking ideas, not to mention the brewers of incredible coffee.
What was the last idea you discussed over a coffee?
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