Didn't read but will that article since it sounds interesting. But does Starbucks mention their potential to be a third place? Because as long as you have to pay for something to stay a certain amount of time it will never be a third place. It is, in my experience, a more relaxed place regarding the relationship consumed/time in the place compared to other cafés but that is not all that makes a third place.

I mean, I would never consider just go to a Starbucks and expect to meet people without having to pay for something