Vegan cafe launches Facebook 'Hitler' rant after customers kick-off about WiFi
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Two vegan cafe owners have become embroiled in a bizarre Facebook spat with their customers after deciding to delete the internet.
Matt Ward, 45, and Dawn Silver, 44, are vegans, and own the Goat Cafe in Trinity Street, Huddersfield.
Recently, they posted to their company Facebook page an announcement regarding WiFi. Matt and Dawn felt the internet is 'exploiting humans' and was not in line with their vegan ethos. They also said they'd be removing some of their coffees from the menu.
The full message, since deleted, read: "Being vegan we believe humans are being exploited within the use of modern technology and would like to set a precedent in saying that we are ditching our internet.
(Photo: MEN)
"We no longer accept card payments and will no longer post updates or acknowledge digital communication or reviews but will be happy to respond to any written or verbal correspondence.
"If you feel this is not enough then open your mind and drop your ego!"
Customers took issue with the post, with many criticising the decision, some a little harshly. It was due to the fact that cafe regulars felt the tone was rude.
Matt and Dawn responded to the tirade, first reported by the Huddersfield Examiner , in a surprisingly brash manner. Replying on the Goat Cafe Facebook page, they branded one customer a "f****** control freak" and compared another to Hitler by way of a meme.
When one customer, Bethany Stanley, told Matt and Dawn she'd be cancelling her pending visit, she was told: "F*** you Bethany, and f*** your plans!"
Another local was asked by the cafe owners: "When exactly are you going to die?"
Another customer was told: "If you can only use the internet to live then you need to address your life!"
Although the original post has been deleted from the Goat Cafe page, much of the abusive remains – including a Hitler-based meme.
Matt and Dawn posted an apology note to their customers, and added in another message: "We will remain closed for a few days as some essential rewiring works are needed on the mother ship."
But it appears the damage has been done. Scores of people in Huddersfield are now writing to the pair about the situation, some demanding a proper apology, others insulting veganism with vigour.
Linn Boo wrote: "I feel sorry for you and especially this Bethany who has taken the brunt of these comments over the last few days. What you've done is bullying, it is disgraceful behaviour. Your actions affect people and how they feel.
"Attacking someone because she had an opinion of your food is awful. Criticism comes with owning any type of business, you're supposed to take it on the chin and then make improvements.
"If you pursue your business, may I suggest some customer service or management training.
"I'm vegan as I believe in humanity, that each living thing deserves love and respect. I think you need to take a long look at your ethics."
Arriane Preston added: "Hey guys! I was just wondering if you catered to my specific dietary requirements? My food needs to have radio waves passed through it prior to eating, I find this helps enrich the food with knowledge, and power."
Donny Lorenzo chimed: "Vegans... so stupid".
And Joe Heatherington quipped: "Hope you all end up in a kale hole."
Matt and Dawn said yesterday that they are waiting to delete their Facebook page. Some believe the whole debacle was a publicity stunt.