The Role of Cafés in Recreational Contexts: From Private Enterprises to Sustainable Social Value Creation
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Abstract
The role of cafés in Thailand has shifted from being food and beverage establishments to becoming contemporary recreational spaces that are increasingly significant to people's lifestyles, particularly in the context of rapidly changing Thai urban society. This article aims to 1) analyze the role of cafés as modern recreational venues linked to economic, social, and cultural dimensions; 2) assess the multifaceted impacts of cafés, including their contributions to local economic development, the creation of spaces for creative activities, and the promotion of social interaction; and 3) propose development approaches in spatial design and recreational management with an emphasis on the role of entrepreneurs and collaboration across various sectors. Based on a synthesis of academic documents, research studies, and case examples from the Thai context, the findings suggest that cafés hold potential as inclusive environments for relaxation, working, and social gathering among diverse groups. At the same time, they play an economic role by supporting small-scale entrepreneurs, generating employment, and promoting cultural tourism. Moreover, cafés can help improve quality of life through accessible design, the application of technology to enrich user experience, and the efficient management of resources, especially when aligned with local identity and sustainable development goals. However, the long-term success of cafés as recreational spaces requires fair, flexible, and visionary support systems built through cooperation among businesses, government agencies, and communities. Such collaboration will enable cafés to become an effective spatial mechanism for advancing sustainable social, economic, and cultural well-being.
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