McDonald’s is the largest supplier of free wireless internet in England. I imagine a similar plan is in the works for the USA.
I’m a fan of free wifi or near free wifi (pay an extra $5 and you can have unlimited internet for the day) if you have the seaing capactiy. I am a frequent user of free wifi in stores and think it usually makes economic sense. I go to Panera Bread and other local restaurants just for the free wifi. In fact, many visitors will buy a coffee and snack, then in a few hours buy lunch. The idea that people will sit there all day and not spend any money is rare because people simply cannot sit and not eat for 10 hours, especially when they are in a restaurant. You will always have people who pay you $2 for a coffee and use your wifi for several hours, but most don’t. The $20-$30 per month spent on wifi will certain pay for itself in higher net sales.
Panera Bread limits free wifi to 30 minutes during lunch times (noon – 2pm).
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Ryan is an attorney and valuation specialist residing in Chicago. He chronicles his thoughts and research on FranchisePundit.com. You may reach him by email ryanknoll@gmail.com or mobile telephone 312-212-3423.
I like going places where I see laptops. It means people are gabbing and making the place loud.
I don’t mind the wifi users in coffee stores, but I do mind the lack of outlets. It creates a dangerous mess of wires on the floor that people are sure to trip on, resulting in a law suit.