In various parts of Spain, especially in popular tourist destinations, some hospitality establishments have started implementing a minimum consumption policy for groups wishing to combine two or more tables. This measure, which can surprise customers, presents the dilemma of splitting groups or complying with the venue's rule.

The legality of this practice hinges on the establishment clearly informing customers beforehand, either through verbal notices or visible signs. While the idea of a minimum spend per combined table is not universally accepted, other rules such as minimum consumption on terraces or requesting permission to move tables are considered more logical by some, given the investment and effort involved in maintaining these spaces.

In the Bay of Cádiz, this specific practice of minimum consumption for joining tables has not been widely observed, although there are signs indicating a minimum spend on terraces or the need to consult staff to combine tables. The latter are perceived as reasonable, considering the costs associated with terraces and the operational complexity for staff.

The evolution of the hospitality sector brings changes aimed at optimizing profitability, such as customer rotation. However, measures like limiting time for breakfast or coffee, or charging for extended stays with low-cost consumption, generate stress and dissatisfaction among consumers, who are reminded of the importance of complaint books and, now, also the internal regulations of establishments.