The establishment known as Pforzheimer's Cafe has implemented a restriction, disallowing patrons wearing running pants.
After being disrespected by men in jogging pants, who even went as far as urinating on his flowers, a proprietor in Pforzheim decided it was time for a change. No longer would his cafe welcome customers dressed in jogging pants or their canine companions. He claimed the new policy was already proving successful.
Due to repeated uncomfortable encounters with patrons donning jogging pants, the proprietor of a Pforzheim cafe has opted to bar entry to individuals dressed in this informal attire - a policy clearly communicated at the establishment's entrance by way of a prominent sign, as reported by Lambros Petrou of Art Cafe. Previously, confronting customers about their attire often led to defensive reactions, such as, "Where does it say that?"
The forbidden attire now extends to both dogs and jogging pants - visually represented by a crossed-out jogging pant icon within a red circle affixed to the entrance door for several weeks. Petrou stressed that it's not an attempt to implement a strict dress code, but rather an encouragement towards a well-groomed appearance. "It's not the jogging pants that are the issue," he explained - rather, it's the people who wear them in an untidy manner.
Recent reports have indicated that Petrou's business has not suffered financially as a result of this restriction. In fact, he's observed an increase in comfort levels among his young female patrons. Petrou maintains a neutral stance towards more fashionable, modern jogging pants, which can be appropriate in certain settings.
Dehoga Baden-Württemberg, a spokesperson for the hospitality industry, confirmed that such bans are legally permissible within the scope of the property rights. Daniel Ohl emphasized that a dress code can be enforced as long as it does not discriminate against individuals based on characteristics such as ethnicity.
Petrou claimed that there was no intent to discriminate on the basis of race or religion. His clientele spans a wide demographic, including students, the elderly, and frequent visitors. He aims to maintain an atmosphere of good conduct among his patrons.
Petrou attributed the overall success of this policy to the enhanced sense of comfort among his customers. He intends to publicly display the sign in a larger iteration to further emphasize the new guidelines.
His initiative has garnered a generally positive response from the Pforzheim community, with many appreciating the concept as a "good experiment." Supporters emphasize the importance of decency and proper attire, with some explicitly referencing the preferability of denim over jogging pants. Others, however, expressed disdain for Petrou's exclusionary approach.
According to Dehoga's Ohl, clothing regulations should be considered within the broader context of a dining experience that includes an intended ambiance. This sometimes extends to the prohibition of swimwear.
Petrou isn't the only proprietor to enact such a ban, with similar measures taken at establishments in Stuttgart and Mulheim an der Ruhr several years ago.
The proprietor's decision to prohibit jogging pants and dogs in The Pforzheim cafe has sparked conversations among the community, with some commending it as a step towards promoting decency. Despite protests from a few, Petrou's cafe in The Pforzheim continues to attract patrons who appreciate the change in attire policy.
