Working behind a counter in a café or restaurant can test anyone’s patience. Long shifts, modest wages, and nonstop demands often come with little appreciation in return. Over time, constant rudeness can drain even the most dedicated workers, making it harder to enjoy a job built around serving others and creating a welcoming space.
That reality inspired a coffee shop owner to try a different approach. After noticing how frequently basic manners were ignored, he decided to address the issue not with confrontation, but with creativity. Instead of lecturing customers, he put up a simple sign outside the café designed to gently remind people that courtesy still matters.
The how-to idea was clever and easy to understand: the more polite the order, the lower the price. A short, abrupt request cost the most, while a friendly greeting paired with “please” earned the biggest discount. The pricing wasn’t about punishment—it was about encouraging human connection and showing that small words can make a big difference.
Within a single day, the sign drew widespread attention, far beyond what the owner ever expected. What started as a quiet effort to improve daily interactions quickly became a talking point around the world. The takeaway was clear: respect doesn’t require grand gestures. Sometimes, a simple “hello” is enough to change the tone—for customers and staff alike.